The prestigious auction house Christie’s is preparing to rekindle its wine auctions in New York after a hiatus, presenting an extraordinary collection amassed by one of America's most renowned wine collectors. This sale is anticipated to fetch a minimum of $15 million, showcasing the legendary vintages collected by billionaire industrialist William Koch. Described as a "once-in-a-generation" event, the auction highlights Koch's passion and vision for collecting some of the world's most historic and sought-after wines. The three-day auction will feature 1,500 lots, including over 750 large-format bottles from esteemed regions like Bordeaux and Burgundy, alongside selections from Champagne, the Rhône Valley, Italy, and the New World.

A significant portion of the auction focuses on wines from renowned estates such as Domaine de la Romanée-Conti, Pétrus, Mouton Rothschild, Lafite Rothschild, and others. Adam Bilbey, Christie’s global head of wine and spirits, praised Koch as a unique figure whose impact on fine wine collecting is both profound and enduring. He noted that Koch's dedication to building one of the greatest wine cellars of our time will leave a lasting legacy. Among the standout items are two bottles of Chateau Lafleur 1982, four bottles of Chateau Mouton Rothschild 1945, and a Jeroboam of Domaine de la Romanée-Conti Montrachet 1986.

William Koch's influence in the world of wine extends beyond his impressive collection. His ability to curate a cellar filled with rare and exquisite wines reflects a lifetime commitment to quality and excellence. The upcoming auction represents not only a celebration of his achievements but also an opportunity for new enthusiasts to partake in this remarkable journey. Koch's earlier collaboration with Sotheby’s in 2016 set records, raising nearly $22 million over 27 hours across three days, attracting bids from over 740 buyers worldwide.

This auction marks another milestone in the storied history of wine collecting, inviting collectors to discover treasures that resonate with their passions. Through this event, Koch hopes to inspire others to find joy in sharing these exceptional wines with loved ones. As Christie’s revives its New York wine auctions, it brings together a community of connoisseurs eager to celebrate the artistry and heritage encapsulated within each bottle.

Christie’s return to the wine auction scene heralds a new chapter in the annals of fine wine trading. By offering such an illustrious collection, they aim to captivate collectors globally and underscore the timeless allure of these liquid masterpieces. The auction serves as a testament to William Koch's visionary approach and his unwavering commitment to elevating the standards of wine appreciation. It invites all participants to embrace the spirit of discovery and share in the rich traditions embodied by these iconic vintages.