Hospices sale given new dates

The 160th Hospices de Beaune sale has been given a new date and will take place on 13 December this year following its postponement in November.

Despite pandemic restrictions in France, the organisers of the annual sale had hoped to push ahead with the auction on its usual date in mid-November but were forced to cancel at the last minute.

With an easing of said restrictions by France’s President Macron, however, a new date has been decided upon.

The organisers said: “Following the latest statements by the French President and the government, we are delighted to announce that the 160th wine sale of the Hospices Civils de Beaune will be held in Beaune on December 13 at 2pm under the Grande Halle, in compliance with health measures.

“We wish that the Hospices Civils de Beaune and in particular its hospital can benefit from the profits that will be collected at this sale, as well as the hospital workers of France, victims of the Covid-19, who will benefit from the Pièce des Présidents this year. We are convinced that this sale, presenting an exceptional vintage thanks to the remarkable work of the winegrowers led by Ludivine Grivault, will be a great success.”

As stated previously, those attending the sale will be required to follow strict health and safety protocols including wearing a mask at all times and respect social distancing.

The number of attendees will also be restricted.