So far in 2020 the USA has more than doubled its market share of trade value compared to 2019. The biggest uptick in demand has been from the USA itself, followed by UK. The USA has had a flavour for Dominus, Overture and Harlan Estate while the UK seems to have it eyes set squarely on Screaming Eagle, which makes up 45% of trade value for the region.
Across all buying regions, the 2016 vintage is by far the most favoured, which comes as no surprise as its also one of the critic’s highest scored – nudging out 2013 as one of the top vintages of recent times.
Distinct wines traded for the USA hit an all-time high in August, more than doubling the month of July. From January to July growth in LWIN7s traded was 35% – July to August, 121%. This comes with the increased exposure (bids and offers) of USA wines. LIVE offers currently stand at an all-time high in September and LIVE bids have risen 158% in the five months from April.
Historically, Napa has been the dominant region, making up roughly 90% of USA trade. However, much like what we have seen with Bordeaux, smaller regions are starting to command more trade. Just this year Napa share has fallen to 70%, with the Sta. Rita Hills, Sonoma County and Santa Cruz Mountains all adding to their totals.
USA is in the spotlight with many September releases from the region hitting the market. Opus One 2017 released this Monday and was called “one of the most complete wines of the vintage” by Antonio Galloni. With Verite, Joseph Phelps and Quintessa yet to come, the excitement for the USA may have really just begun.
Attached are LIVE offers of USA wines – starting at £124 per 12×75 for Dobbes, Pinot Gris Wine by Joe 2016.
