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Music legend Quincy Jones, at 90, unveils an extraordinary wine collection for auction with Christie’s. Over 150 lots, including rare pre-war vintages, promise a sip into history.
In 1953, saxophonist Ben Webster gave a 19-year-old Jones sage advice: “Experience a country through its music, food, and language.” Jones took it to heart, cultivating a wine collection from his global journeys. Now, he’s sharing this “encyclopedic” selection with wine enthusiasts through a special collaboration with Christie’s.
Bidding for this exclusive event, featuring over 150 lots, commences on Nov. 30 and concludes on Dec. 11. Christie’s describes Jones’s collection as “encyclopedic” in its curation, showcasing wines from premier global regions. Notable highlights include rare pre-war vintages such as the 1928 Cos D’Estournel and 1933 Latour and Leacock’s Malvazia, tied to Jones’s birth year. A curated selection of grand cru Burgundy, champagne from Louis Roederer, Cristal, Dom Pérignon, and Krug adds to the allure.
Jones reflects on his collection, stating, “Each bottle evokes memories of unique times spent with extraordinary people, promising beautiful new experiences once opened. I’m confident these selections will bring joy and memories to others as they have for me.”
The online auction also includes over 200 lots from A Diplomat’s Collection of Rarities, featuring magnums of the 1971 vintage of Domaine de la Romanée Conti and selections from Domaine Leroy, First Growths, Pomerol, Saint-Emilion, Salon, Cristal, and classic Napa wines.
Chris Munro, head of department for Christie’s Americas, Fine Wine & Spirits, expresses excitement about collaborating with Jones, highlighting the collection’s expert curation and appeal to wine connoisseurs worldwide.
Christie’s specialist Adam Schneider adds, “Quincy Jones has assembled a wine cellar to match his legendary status as an entertainer.”
The iconic partnership between Jones and Christie’s is garnering attention for its blend of musical and oenophilic legacies. The collection, rich with Bordeaux’s great vintages, Burgundy’s Grand Crus, and Jones’s personal favorite, Gaja Barbaresco, promises a unique opportunity for wine enthusiasts and collectors alike.
Similar stories of celebrities entering the wine auction scene have been making waves globally. From athletes to Hollywood stars, the trend of sharing personal wine collections is capturing the interest of aficionados seeking unique, storied bottles.
The collaboration with Jones underscores Christie’s dedication to presenting exclusive, culturally significant collections. As this partnership unfolds, it marks a fusion of art, music, and viticulture, showcasing the diverse passions of influential personalities.
Jones’s wine auction stands out as a celebration of life’s rich tapestry. As enthusiasts anticipate the bidding war, this unique offering invites individuals to partake in the shared joy of savoring history, one exceptional bottle at a time.
