If your lot does not meet its reserve, it will be passed in and may be entered into a future auction. Over time, the reserve and sale format may change.
The reserve reduction pathway
If your lot continues to pass in, the following stages generally apply:
| Stage | What happens |
| After the 7th auction attempt | Reserve reduced to the House Reserve. If already at House Reserve, reduced by a further 10%. |
| After the 9th auction attempt | Reserve reduced to $2 and the lot is offered in an unreserved auction. |
| After the 12th auction attempt (3 unreserved attempts) |
The lot is classified as No Commercial Value (NCV). |
At any of these stages, you may instead request the wines be returned. Shipping and handling fees will apply.
What is an unreserved auction?
An unreserved auction means the lot is listed with a reserve of $2, bidding starts at $2, and any bid of $2 or more will sell the lot.
If a lot is classified as NCV
If your lot is ultimately classified as NCV, we will be in touch to arrange return or disposal. See Understanding a No Commercial Value assessment for the applicable fees and timeframes.
Suggested articles
- Understanding a No Commercial Value assessment
- Setting a reserve on your lot
- Withdrawing a lot before auction
Need assistance?
Entrusting your wines to LANGTONS begins with a conversation. To save time, share your enquiry through our Auction and Valuation contact form and one of our specialists will be in touch shortly.
You are also welcome to speak with your Private Client Manager, or call our Auction and Valuation team on 1300 946 347.