The Cité du Vin in Bordeaux and Sotheby’s France have announced their third online charity auction, running from October 7 to October 27, aimed at supporting the Foundation for Wine Culture and Civilisations. This auction features 64 lots, with over 90% offering immersive experiences at some of the world’s top wine estates, blending rare bottles with exclusive access.
A highlight of the auction is the ‘1855-2025 Cité du Vin Collection – In the Footsteps of Thomas Jefferson.’ This unique lot celebrates two significant anniversaries: the 170th anniversary of the Bordeaux 1855 Classification and the 10th anniversary of the Cité du Vin. It includes bottles from all 88 classified growths of the 2016 vintage along with private tours and tastings at prestigious wineries such as Château Batailley, Pontet-Canet, and Mouton Rothschild. The package is estimated to fetch between €10,000 and €20,000 and comes with a plaque bearing the winning bidder’s name.
Alongside this centerpiece are notable lots such as a double magnum of the 2018 vintage from Château Le Pin, a private tour with lunch for four estimated at €15,000 to €30,000, and a 2005 d’Yquem magnum with estate lunch for six valued at €3,000 to €6,000. The auction also includes international offerings, such as a 1998 Deutz Champagne jeroboam and a 2008 Ornellaia double magnum.
Proceeds from this charitable endeavor will support the Foundation’s programs at the Cité du Vin, which serve over 400,000 annual visitors from around the globe. Géraldine Thomas, director of development at the Cité du Vin, emphasized the importance of buyer support for continuing cultural activities and preserving wine heritage.
Bidding begins at 10 am CET on Sotheby’s website, where the full auction catalogue can be viewed and registration completed.