Two centuries of history lie dormant in a bottle of Sauternes: in 2026, a very rare bottle of Château d’Yquem 1811 will go under the hammer in Montpellier. And collectors are already wondering how high the bids will go for this so-called “comet” vintage.
Made from a mouth-blown glass, this bottle has already made history: in 2011, it became the most expensive white wine in the world, a record approved by Guinness World Records, before joining the cellar of a French sommelier.
Château d’Yquem 1811: a legendary bottle on sale in Montpellier
On May 31, 2026, Farran Enchères will offer this Château d’Yquem 1811 in Montpellier, with a starting price of $60,000. Only around ten authenticated bottles of this vintage remain, presented as and described as , indicates Farran Enchères, cited by France 3.
The bottle, made of mouth-blown glass, was inspected at the château and certified as conforming, notably in the presence of the cellar master at the time, to guarantee its authenticity. So many elements which reassure bidders about the conservation of this bicentennial Sauternes.
Vintage 1811, “year of the comet” and the most expensive white wine in the world
If 1811 fascinates so much, it is for the extraordinary quality of the vintage. , explain La Revue des vins de France, cited by France 3.
The only white wine from Bordeaux classified as Premier Cru Supérieur in 1855, Yquem is renowned, writes France 3. The last recorded tasting dates back to 1998: the critic Michael Broadbent then spoke of, says Michael Broadbent, quoted by France 3.
An extraordinary trajectory for this Château d’Yquem 1811
This bottle comes from the collection of Christian Vanneque, sommelier who worked at the Tour d’Argent. In 2011, he purchased it from The Antique Wine Company for $117,000, or approximately $85,000, making this 1811, according to Guinness World Records, the most expensive bottle of white wine ever sold.
This record concerns whites: for all the wines, the highest bid remains an imperial Cheval-Blanc 1947, sold for $223,967. In June 2025, another Yquem 1811 was sold for $60,000 in Paris; the identical price setting in Montpellier will indicate whether the market confirms this level or gets carried away. Alcohol abuse is dangerous for your health, consume in moderation.
Why is the Château d’Yquem 1811 legendary?
It is a Sauternes 1811, year of the comet, considered one of the greatest wines ever produced.
What price record does this vintage hold?
In 2011, a bottle was sold for $117,000, or around $85,000, a record approved by Guinness World Records.
When and where will the next sale take place?
May 31, 2026, at Farran Enchères in Montpellier, with a price announced at $60,000.
