Vertical tasting

A vertical tasting is a comparative tasting of multiple vintages from the same wine, for example, sampling Château Margaux from 2005, 2010, 2015, and 2018 side by side. This format reveals how weather, aging, and time shape the same wine across years. Luxury hotels with serious cellars often organize vertical tastings as exclusive events for guests, typically featuring iconic wines (Burgundy grand crus, Bordeaux first growths, Champagne tête de cuvée). What to expect: 5-12 vintages, 2-3 hours, often led by a Master Sommelier or the estate's winemaker. Pricing varies wildly, from 150 EUR for accessible verticals to 5,000+ EUR for iconic ones (Romanée-Conti, Pétrus). Booking is usually 1-6 months ahead. Spit buckets are provided; alcohol intake adds up fast.