The oldest drinkable champagne ever discovered comes from a shipwreck found in the Baltic Sea in 2010. This ship contained bottles from several different champagne houses, including Veuve Clicquot, Juglar, and Heidsieck.
These bottles are believed to have rested on the seabed for almost 170 years. Among these, bottles from Veuve Clicquot have been identified as some of the oldest drinkable champagnes.
Discovery Details
- Location: The shipwreck was found near the Åland Islands, which are situated between Sweden and Finland in the Baltic Sea.
- Condition: The cold and dark conditions of the Baltic Sea provided an almost perfect storage environment, preserving the champagne remarkably well. The pressure at the seabed was also similar to the pressure inside the bottles, which helped maintain their integrity.
- Quantity: A total of 168 bottles were recovered from the wreck. Upon analysis, it was discovered that the bottles were from the early 19th century.
Cost
When the bottles from this shipwreck have been sold at auction, they have fetched very high prices. For example:
- A bottle of Veuve Clicquot from the shipwreck was sold at auction for approximately €30,000.
These prices can vary depending on the condition of the bottle, the circumstances of the auction, and the interest of the buyers.
Additional Facts
- Historical Significance: The discovery of these bottles provides a unique glimpse into the winemaking techniques and styles of the early 19th century. It also offers insight into the history of champagne production and distribution.
- Taste and Quality: Experts who have tasted these recovered champagnes report that the wine has aged surprisingly well, with complex flavors that have developed over time.
- Auction Sales: In addition to Veuve Clicquot, bottles from Juglar and Heidsieck have also been auctioned, though Veuve Clicquot tends to fetch the highest prices due to its brand recognition and historical significance.
Who knew this discovery was made just outside Sweden. I would love taste one of those bottles and be able to put that cork in my Corkframe!
