The Wine Lover's Guide to Auctions The Art & Science of Buying and Selling Wines Ursula Hermacinski

ISBN: 0-7570-0275-7 Length: 160 Pages Size: 7.5 x 7.5-inch Format: Quality Paperback 2-color Category: Collectibles / Wine Price: $17.95 US / $22.50 CAN Availability: In Print   Contents Reviews

From America to Zanzibar, the popularity of wine has skyrocketed in recent years. While millions of people around the world have come to appreciate both its elegance and its taste, there is also a growing number of wine collectors who recognize it as a sound investment. For these savvy individuals, the wine auction has become an important place to grow their wine "portfolios," just as it has become a place for top chefs and bargain-hunting wine aficionados to find superior wines. But if you thought wine auctions were just for the elite, think again. Internationally renowned wine auctioneer Ursula Hermacinski has written The Wine Lover's Guide to Auctions to explain how wine auctions really work so that you can become an active and successful player.

Why wine auctions? Simple. Once better wines have been sold to enthusiasts, these vintages can no longer be found on retailers' shelves. They do, however, resurface at wine auctions. While these exciting events are filled with dynamic movement and momentum--as well as unique opportunities--to the novice, auctions can be a bit intimidating. To help provide the newcomer with a clear understanding of what wine auctions are all about, Ms. Hermacinski has organized all the relevant information in one easy-to-use guide.

The guide begins by looking at the fascinating history of wine auctions. It then explains wine basics and details the mechanics of the auction process itself--for sellers as well as buyers. The author then describes all the players involved in auctions, and explains how to use the auction catalogue to maximize your chance of success. Included are a number of insider secrets, enabling you to save time and money. The author even examines numerous wine-related items that may be offered for sale, from rare texts to vintage posters.

Whether you choose to attend a local charity wine event or a high-profile auction, The Wine Lover's Guide to Auctions will help you get the most out of your experience.

Ursula Hermacinski was named "goddess of the gavel" by Food & Wine Magazine when she captured its prestigious Golden Grape Award for "perfecting the art of auctioneering." Her career began in 1984 at Christie's in New York. In 1992, Ms. Hermacinski became the first woman auctioneer at the world-famous Napa Valley Wine Auction, and has since headed many charity auctions across the country. Ms. Hermacinski established Christie's New York wine department along with the fine wine retailer Zachys in 1994. She went out on her own in 1998 and began pioneering interest in online wine auctions. Currently, Ms. Hermacinski takes the rostrum at numerous national and international wine auctions. She is a highly sought-after lecturer. Ms. Hermacinski has been profiled on CNN's Marketplace and is a frequent guest on radio shows dealing with wine and its investment potential. The author currently lives and plays in Steamboat Springs, Colorado.

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