Uncorked: Episode 1 - Is Bordeaux Still Worth It?
Welcome to Uncorked – our brand-new podcast series and the first-ever podcast from Cult Wines.
We’re kicking off with a proper corker: an insider’s look at the fine wine market from three continents. Hosted by our Co-founder and CEO, Tom Gearing, with guests Joe Alim (Managing Director, Cult Wines Asia) and Jonathan Stevenson (Executive Vice President, Cult Wines North America), this first episode dives into memorable trades, regional insights, and some no-holds-barred chat on the current state of play.
If you’re into fine wine and global markets or want to know whether drinking red with Coca-Cola is actually a thing in China, this one’s for you.
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What topics were covered?
The Trades That Stuck with Us
We opened with a look back at our most memorable trades – not necessarily the flashiest labels, but the kind of clever, well-timed moves that stick in your mind for years. Joe recalls the under-the-radar Burgundy pick that exploded in Hong Kong, while Jonathan goes back to his first En Primeur campaign with Château Clinet 2009 – a textbook case of timing and Parker points.
The Global Wine Scene: US vs Asia
With Joe based in Hong Kong and Jonathan in New York, we explored how fine wine markets differ across regions. We covered everything from access and tariffs to cultural quirks – including the long-standing (and slightly ridiculous) rumour about Coca-Cola and red wine in China. We also touched on how Hong Kong’s duty-free status makes it one of the best places in the world to drink fine wine – and why US buyers are still catching on to the benefits of storing in the UK.
Burgundy Obsession and the BYO of Dreams
Our chat naturally drifted into Burgundy – its allure, its complexity, and why collectors can’t seem to quit it. Jonathan shared stories from La Paulée in New York, a lavish BYO feast where 500+ wine lovers and Michelin-star chefs came together for a night of grand formats, mini-verticals and wine-fuelled mingling. It's one of those moments that reminds you why we all love this game.
En Primeur 2024 - A Window of Opportunity?
We unpacked the Bordeaux 2024 En Primeur campaign – one of the earliest and fastest we’ve ever seen. It’s not a blockbuster vintage, and that’s a good thing. Why? Because compelling prices, faster releases, and reduced pressure mean more room for upside. We discussed why off-prime vintages often outperform the greats, how Asia's appetite for labels creates liquidity, and why 2024 could be one of those quietly successful years for the savvy investor.
The Price of Prestige and the Economic Squeeze
We took a candid look at how inflation, labour costs, and interest rates are squeezing château margins and how that’s forcing some estates to make tough pricing decisions. From classified growths to second wines, we broke down why value is back in Bordeaux and where we’re seeing the best buys – from Lafite to Canon.
Younger Drinkers, New Collectors and the Future of Wine
Is Gen Z skipping wine? Are we facing a collector crisis? We debated whether the fine wine world is doing enough to attract new audiences. Joe highlighted how Asia is trending younger, Tom pointed out the rise in experience-led spending, and Jonathan touched on how tech like CultX is bringing wine into the modern investing fold. It’s not all doom and gloom, but it’s time for the industry to evolve.
Tariffs and Tensions
Finally, we tackled the latest on US tariffs – from Trump’s 200% threat to the current 10% rate – and what it means for collectors and global trade. The key takeaway? Uncertainty is worse than the tariff itself. Once things are clear, buyers can act – and for now, the market seems to be absorbing the impact.
We’re excited, a little bit giddy (it is our first time) and full of strong opinions – uncorked and unfiltered. From market insights to personal stories, this episode sets the tone for what Uncorked is all about: honest conversations, global perspectives, and a shared passion for the world of fine wine.
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