Top 5 Wine Regions to Start Your Investment Portfolio
Investing in fine wine is more than just a passion, it’s a smart, tangible asset class with strong historical performance. According to The Times, fine wine investment has delivered consistent returns, making it an attractive alternative asset. For those looking to build their first wine investment portfolio, selecting the right regions is crucial. Some wine regions consistently produce investment-worthy bottles that appreciate in value over time, thanks to their prestige, rarity, and global demand.
Below, we explore the top five wine regions that should be at the foundation of any serious fine wine investment portfolio.

1. Bordeaux, France – The Classic Investment Choice
When it comes to fine wine investment, Bordeaux is the cornerstone. With centuries of heritage, a structured en primeur market, and established critic scoring systems, Bordeaux wines, especially from First Growth châteaux, have a proven track record of increasing in value.
- Top Investment Wines: Château Lafite Rothschild, Château Margaux, Château Latour, Château Haut-Brion, Château Mouton Rothschild
- Why Invest? Bordeaux’s structured pricing system, global reputation, and aging potential make it a solid, reliable investment.

2. Burgundy, France – The Most Exclusive Wine Investment Region
While Bordeaux dominates in volume, Burgundy commands rarity and prestige, with small production and increasing global demand. Top-tier Domaine de la Romanée-Conti (DRC) bottles have outperformed many traditional assets over the years.
- Top Investment Wines: Domaine de la Romanée-Conti (DRC), Domaine Leroy, Domaine Armand Rousseau, Domaine Leflaive
- Why Invest? Limited production means demand far exceeds supply, leading to consistent price appreciation.

3. Tuscany, Italy – A Growing Wine Investment Opportunity
Italy has long been celebrated for its wine, but in the past decade, Tuscany has emerged as a fine wine investment powerhouse. Super Tuscans, with their Bordeaux-style blends, have become some of the most sought-after wines in the secondary market.
- Top Investment Wines: Sassicaia, Tignanello, Ornellaia, Masseto
- Why Invest? Super Tuscans offer strong aging potential and increasing international demand, particularly in Asia and the USA.

4. Napa Valley, USA – New World, Big Returns
Napa Valley is the leader of the New World investment scene. The region’s cult wines—produced in limited quantities—rival the finest Bordeaux and Burgundy labels in terms of prestige and price appreciation.
- Top Investment Wines: Screaming Eagle, Harlan Estate, Opus One, Dominus
- Why Invest? Strong brand recognition and high critic scores drive demand, particularly among American and Asian collectors.

5. Champagne, France – The Luxury Asset
Investment in Champagne has been growing steadily, thanks to global demand for luxury brands. Vintage Champagne from top houses appreciates well over time and is an excellent addition to a diversified wine portfolio.
- Top Investment Wines: Dom Pérignon P2 & P3, Krug Vintage, Salon, Louis Roederer Cristal
- Why Invest? Champagne ages beautifully, gains value with scarcity, and has strong demand across luxury markets.
How to Start Your Wine Investment Journey
Building a wine investment portfolio isn’t just about picking the right bottles, it’s about buying, storing, and selling strategically. At Cru Wine, we make fine wine investing transparent, effortless, and accessible.
Expert guidance on top-performing wines
Secure storage solutions in bonded warehouses
Access to rare and collectible wines
Start your investment journey today with Cru Wine, your digital-first fine wine merchant. Browse our latest investment recommendations here.