Zachys to host first London sale

US auctioneer Zachys has announced it will be holding its first ever European sale in London this September, offering rarities from the cellar of Michelin-starred Italian restaurant Enoteca Pinchiorri.

Taking place on 12 September, the single owner sale will feature over 800 lots from the cellar of the famous Florentine restaurant, including blue chip Burgundian, Bordelais, Champagne and Italian wines from producers such as Coche-Dury, Jayer, Liger-Belair, Domaine de la Romanée-Conti, Lafite, Latour, Petrus, Yquem, Ornellaia and Krug.

The live auction will be held at Cabotte wine bar and restaurant with technology allowing bidders from around the world to participate in the sale as well.

The restaurant is part-owned by Ian Mill QC, who sold part of his substantial collection through Zachys last year.

The restaurant’s founder, Giorgio Pinchiorri, said: “I’m delighted to be partnering with Zachys for such a historic auction. Each of these bottles means a lot to me, and indeed I said goodbye to every single one as they went into the Zachys boxes. I always try to keep in mind that wine bottles, if not opened, cannot be truly appreciated.
“My advice to buyers is as follows; before opening a bottle of wine you’ve won in this auction, give it a little caress, and a little kiss. Celebrate its producer, who has put a lot of sweat and effort into bringing a great vintage into the cellar. And enjoy it. That’s why I bought them, and why I want you to have them!”

Jeff Zacharia, president of Zachys commented: ‘‘At Zachys we pride ourselves on our unique auction style which is more fun and relaxed than the more traditional wine sales. Our events are a true celebration of fine wine and an opportunity for discerning drinkers to connect with like-minded enthusiasts. We cannot wait to bring Zachys signature style to London which we see as the perfect place for our launch in Europe. The city has a fascinating, wine-related story on every corner.’’

Zachys said it intends to follow up this single owner sale with a multi-vendor auction in London this November.

Christy Erickson, head of Europe at Zachys said: ‘‘We’re delighted to be hosting Zachys’ first European event in the City of London, known as one of the most historic fine wine centres of the world. Along with New York and Hong Kong, Zachys now has outposts in the three top fine wine markets globally. Our team has an unrivalled passion for wine and we cannot wait to meet some new faces in the city. The bidding party promises to be a brilliant occasion to mark our inaugural European sales season.’’