Zachys’ first Washington D.C auction in 30 years makes $5.4m

Zachys’ first auction in Washington D.C for 30 years has surpassed pre-auction estimates to realise sales of US$5.4 million, setting a number of new world records.

Twelve bottles of 2010 Rousseau Chambertin set a world auction record by selling for $34,440.

Over the course of two days, a total of 717 lots, nearly half of the auction, sold above their pre-auction high estimates, while 49 lots sold for over $10,000 a piece.

Top lots included DRC Romanée-Conti, with several lots setting American auction records. Three bottles of Romanée Conti 2012 sold for $41,820 and another three bottles of the 2012 sold for $44,280, while 12 bottles of Rousseau Chambertin 2010 set a world auction record by selling for $34,440.

Overall, a combined 45 lots of Domaine de la Romanée-Conti performed most strongly, realising sales of $525,087 in total, surpassing the pre-auction high estimate of $444,500.

In addition, as part of Zachys’ California Strong initiative, Zachys will donate $12,305 – 100% of the buyer’s premium from California lots sold – to help support the relief effort following the devastating wildfires that swept through the region last month. The company as a whole reached their $25,000 goal, and all proceeds will be split among three charities.

Zachys’ next auction, The Holiday Auction, Fine and Rare, will be held in New York on December 1 and 2 at Smith & Wollensky.