We advise not only on the classical areas such as Bordeaux and Burgundy, but wherever the market has produced very high quality product, that has investment potential. California for example, has shown over the past 10 years spectacular growth, as have some fabulous wines from Australia. If the opportunity exists, we will be aware and if requested take advantage.

We do not hold stocks, but on instruction go into the marketplace on your behalf to purchase the best wine available. We feel that if we were a stockholder then we would not be truly independent for our clients, and they are our "raison d'être". We work on a commission basis, so it is in our interests to find the very best wine, at the very best price, which has been impeccably stored for the customer. Nothing less is acceptable.

We have seen some parts of the trade disappear from time to time, leaving a trail of debts and missing wine. This organisation is set up so that when you purchase wine, it immediately is held in your account at our cellarers and the cases are marked as your property. We will manage the holdings if you wish, but title and control always remains with the client. We have a verifying relationship with a lawyer/ accountant and every 6 months his firm certifies that the stock held balances with any stock certificate issued. Only he can issue a competent certificate.

Some clients do ask us to sell on their behalf, and we are more than happy to provide this service. We will instruct on an auction house to sell your holdings, they do however charge a commission. Alternatively we can arrange sale through the market that will deliver the proceeds quicker and possibly at a better price. Market conditions and the particular requirements of the client dictate the route to be taken.

STOP PRESS: Click here for this month's selection of fine wines for purchase