At Château Lafaurie-Peyraguey in Sauternes, there is a unique crystal wine barrel crafted by the crystal house Lalique. It was made by a team of skilled artisans, including some Meilleurs Ouvriers de France. The creation took two years and over 2,000 hours, combining crystal and leather. Weighing 400 kg, it is only designed to be displayed, not for ageing wine.

The barrel holds the 2013 Sauternes vintage, the first made under the actual owner of Château Lafaurie-Peyraguey, Silvio Denz from Switzerland. A special play of light makes the wine inside glow like liquid gold. While its exact price is not disclosed, it is estimated to be worth hundreds of thousands of euros, showcasing the incredible craftsmanship and luxury it represents.

An air bubble is visible beneath the stopper; it is filled with nitrogen to help preserve the wine.

 

Léa Gatinois DipWSET