Got my latest Rochambeau newsletter a couple day ago. Full page editorial, stating essentially that they're disgusted with 2005 Bdx price manipulations based on the scoring by "certain writers," etc (hmmm...wonder who that could be). Consequently, they're refusing to sell any 2005 Bdx futures.
They're up your way, Dale. Heard anything more?
JJ
Life is complicated, others' motivations more so.
I've had this discussion with Jeff W, the manager at Rochambeau. I get along well with both Jeff and Dieter, the store owner. Very good store, despite a couple of PR missteps. The other factor is for past 15 years (till after 2003 futures campaign) Alan Marshok was Bdx buyer, till he left maybe 2 years ago. So how much is disgust and how much is business happenstance? Since Alan left the store is much more oriented towards California PNs, cult cabs, etc. It's sometimes hard to separate my expediency from my ideals, even harder with others.
Futures are always a gamble, no matter what anyone says (when store owner says "they'll double by release", don't you wonder why he isn't mortgaging house rather than selling to us?). And of course there are external factors (general economy, next harvest, currency) that can have great effects.
My personal bet is those who bought the seconds/thirds that had HUGE price increases and very good (but not absolute top) scores will regret it (think Palmer). Most people who bought firsts early will be ok (except Mouton). Most of the lesser wines didn't have huge price increases, and I doubt anyone there takes a bath. I stuck to mostly lower end stuff, the only things I bought over $30 were Beausejour-Duffau ($70), du Tertre ($35), and Rouget ($34).
cheers!
snipped-for-privacy@unspameljefe.net wrote:
Spendthrift! ;-) The most expensive '05 I went in for was Grand Corbin Despagne at $25. I regret not having gone in for the du Tertre, though.
Mark Lipton
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