Dom Perignon 1975 and 1978

Miki, According to

both bottles are retailing now for US $240. A fair market price for sale to a merchant should be about 50-70% of that value and will depend on the conditions they've been stored in since release. If there's any question about temperature fluctuations or high storage temps, that will detract from their value.

HTH Mark Lipton

Mark -- Thank you so much for the guidelines.....it helps a lot.

Miki

FYI -- I just recd a callback from the merchant/wine critic's assistant telling me they feel the bottles have past their prime. They offered me $25 for each bottle. That being the case, I will give the two bottles to a friend.

Miki

Good decision, Miki. The merchant's offer strikes me as a bit disingenuous: if he really believes that they are past their prime, why does he want them at all? Conversely, if he wants them, why offer you an insultingly low value for them? I'd say that they are trying to take advantage of you, and I think that making gifts of them is a very nice touch. One thing to be aware of: aged Champagne is not everyone's cup of tea. People who have drunk (and enjoyed) aged white wines from Europe are more likely to appreciate your gifts.

Mark Lipton

Mark -- Again, I thank you for your valuable input. I agree with your opinion about the offer. The merchant is highly resepected by the wine community and methinks it is very tacky, to say the least, to make me such an offer. I know a couple who will be thrilled to pieces to receive the bottles......and this will give me pleasure.

Miki