Fine wine auctions have enjoyed a remarkable start to the year. Christie's and Sotheby's ended the first three months of the year with $6.8 million (+70%), selling 1,742 items, a first-quarter record since 2016. Italian wines, ranging from Sassicaia to Monfortino, continue to dominate international and domestic auctions. Following a two-year post-pandemic boom slump, fine wine has become a permanent feature in alternative investment portfolios. Against this backdrop, Italian wine is enjoying a particularly prosperous period. While global average fine wine prices have slowed, Italian labels are heading in the opposite direction: according to the 2026 iDealwine Barometer, over 10,000 Italian bottles were sold at auction in 2025 for a total value of about €1 million, a 37% increase over the previous year. And, while the average global price reduced by roughly 8%, the price of Italian wines increased by 2%, reaching €96 per bottle. Leading the charge are the usual big names. Piedmont leads in terms of label count, with Giacomo Conterno's Barolo Riserva Monfortino currently among the most sought-after lots by international collectors. Tuscany responds with its Super Tuscans and occupies the highest price position: a 1985 Sassicaia from Tenuta San Guido, which is regarded as one of the finest vintages ever, was sold for €2,629. Montevertine's Le Pergole Torte also performed well, while one of the most interesting signs is the rediscovery of "off-the-beaten-track" territories: Emidio Pepe's return to the top-selling list, with historic Montepulciano d'Abruzzo vintages (1973-1982) capable of exceeding €300 per bottle, and Quintarelli's Veneto with his Amarone.