For mature and rare wines, the detail in a lot description tells much of the story — but not always all of it. If you would like a closer look at a particular lot before bidding, our specialists are glad to provide a condition report.
What a condition report includes
Depending on the lot, a condition report may cover:
- additional photographs of the bottle, label, capsule and fill level
- a closer description of any wear, marking or seepage
- notes on the closure, where it may be inspected
- any other detail our specialists are well placed to share
It is, in essence, the considered second look — offered by the same specialists who catalogued the lot in the first place.
How to request one
Condition reports can be requested at any time while a lot is open for bidding. The earlier the request, the more time our specialists have to attend to it.
- Use the Request a condition report link on the lot page, where available
- Email auctions@langtons.com.au, quoting the lot number and auction date
- Speak with your Private Client Manager, who can arrange it on your behalf
We aim to respond within one business day, and sooner where the auction is nearing close.
Worth knowing
A condition report is a guide, not a guarantee. It reflects our specialists' considered observations at the time of inspection. As with every auction purchase, we encourage reading the report alongside the lot description, the glossary and your own sense of the wine.
For more on how to read a lot description, see A glossary for the collector and Understanding provenance.