Anyone who knows 1275 will understand that we see wine as so much more than a beverage. It’s a vessel for transmission of culture, of legacy, of friendship – a treasure that transcends time, and celebrates the greatest cohesion of Man and nature.
As the annual charity sale of Burgundy’s famous Hospices de Beaune is approaching, we’re reminded that wine also often features as a force for good. While the Hospices is far from the only charity wine auction of note, it is perhaps the most emblematic, encapsulating wine’s enduring power and reach. Below we offer a brief history of this Burgundian tradition.
History
Founded in 1443 by Nicolas Rolin and Guigone de Salins, the Hospices de Beaune served as a hospital for the poor until 1971. Today, it is both a museum and the steward of a renowned wine estate built over centuries of donations. Its annual Vente des Vins, held every November, is one of the world’s most celebrated charity auctions, where the year’s wines are sold en primeur by the barrel. The proceeds fund local healthcare projects, making the event both a cornerstone of Burgundy’s heritage and a barometer for the region’s market.
Today
Now overseen by Sotheby’s, the Hospices de Beaune auction features barrels – including the prestigious Pièce du Président, and cuvées named after historic benefactors – sold to finance medical and social initiatives. The 164th edition in 2024 raised c.€14 million, with the Pièce du Président fetching €360,000.
Following last year’s historically low volumes, this year’s sale faces another tight offering: just 539 barrels, after only 440 in 2024 – nearly a 30% drop in two years. The culprit lies in Burgundy’s challenging weather: spring frost, hail in the Côte de Beaune, and a hot, dry summer. Despite these conditions, quality remains exceptional, setting the stage for fierce competition over iconic cuvées. With global demand strong, and supply limited, the sale on Sunday 16th will no doubt see spirited bidding – though organisers are expected to keep prices in check to preserve market stability and long-term confidence.
Wine for Good
Over the past two decades, wine has become an increasingly popular feature at charity auctions. These lots often command remarkable sums. Their rarity, history, and symbolism often resonate deeply with bidders. Wine has always been about connection and sharing – and through these philanthropic sales, it also serves a greater purpose, supporting causes from healthcare to human rights.
Still, generosity shouldn’t replace vigilance. Even with the most noble of intentions, provenance remains crucial to avoid the risk of acquiring counterfeit bottles or wines that have been poorly stored. Generally we advise bidding with heart, but also with care – in the case of the Hospices de Beaune, the two are a given.