Boston – A 5.5L bottle of Domaine de la Romanée-Conti La Tâche from 1971 achieved $150,000 – the highest price for a single bottle of wine ever sold at Bonhams globally – during the Iconic Wines from Passionate Collectors sale which ended on June 17. Large format bottles of Domaine de la Romanée-Conti, one of the most prestigious and sought-after wines in the world, are extremely rare and the sale offered an unprecedented three bottles. This is the first time a 5.5L from 1971 has ever been offered at auction and the interest reflected this rare offering.

The online sale reached an international audience with registrations coming from 11 countries across the Americas, Asia, and Europe, and saw a substantial increase in new buyers making up 22% of lots sold. Overall, the Iconic Wines from Passionate Collectors sale achieved $521,363 with 95% sold by lot and 100% sold by value.

The two other large format bottles of DRC offered in the sale included a 6L bottle of DRC La Tâche from 1994, which sold for $20,000, and a 6L bottle of DRC Richebourg from 1994, which sold for $15,000.

An additional highlight of the sale was the collection of Josh Raynolds, renowned international wine critic, inveterate collector, and passionate vinous ambassador, which achieved $173,500 overall. Of note from his collection were three bottles of George Roumier Musigny from 1999, sold for $32,500, as well as six bottles of Jacky Truchot Morey St. Denis Clos Sorbe Vieille Vigne from 2001, sold for $7,500.

The success of this sale follows the expansion of the Bonhams' Wine & Spirits department in the United States under the leadership of Amayès Aouli, Global Head of Wine & Spirits and Marie Keep, Head of Wine & Spirits for the Americas. With initiatives that have grown the team, introduced more selling opportunities, improved innovation, and enhanced client experience, Bonhams continues to solidify itself as the chosen destination for consigning and purchasing fine wines and spirits.