In an extraordinary development for wine enthusiasts and collectors, Bonhams is set to auction the first-ever vintage of wine cultivated and produced in Bhutan. Set to take place from 3 to 24 April, this landmark event will feature a limited offering of just 48 bottles from the Bhutan Wine Company, making it a momentous occasion in the annals of viticulture.

Bonhams’ historic auction will showcase 48 bottles of Ser Kem—translating to “an offering of alcohol to the gods”—the inaugural bottling from the Bhutan Wine Company. Founded with the goal of introducing the world to Bhutan’s rich terroir, characterised by its pristine environment and high altitude, the unique venture’s first-ever harvest of wine grapes in Bhutan occurred in 2023, resulting in the creation of the Ser Kem bottlings, a special blend that encapsulates the essence of the region’s diverse grape varieties.

Michael Juergens and Ann Cross, the pioneering co-founders of Bhutan Wine Company, recognised the untapped potential for viticulture in Bhutan after visiting the country in 2017 and seeing it as an ideal location for wine production. Bhutan Wine Company’s vision, realised through an alliance with local Bhutanese partners Yab Dhondup Gyaltshen and Karma Choeda, has led to the establishment of a new wine industry in what many consider the globe’s last untouched frontier for wine development, all while celebrating Bhutan’s unique agricultural heritage and aligning with the country’s commitment to sustainability.

Bonhams’ auction highlight will undoubtedly be The Himalayan, a remarkable 7.57-litre bottle estimated to fetch between US$40,000 (approximately HK$310,805) and US$80,000 (approximately HK$621,615). It’s the top lot that all eyes will be on as the density of grape expectations (pun intended) is second to none: this bespoke creation pays homage to Gangkhar Puensum, the highest unclimbed mountain in the world, standing at 7,570 metres. Not only will the winning bidder take home the wine, but they will be granted an exclusive, curated trip to Bhutan, featuring cultural and wine experiences with the leadership team of Bhutan Wine Company. Additional perks include priority allocation for the next five vintages and a private tasting with senior members of the Bhutan Wine Company team.

All bottles offered in the auction are signed by the visionary team behind Bhutan Wine Company and will be housed in elegant commemorative boxes crafted by local artisans, further enhancing their exclusivity. Catering to diverse preferences among collectors, a range of bottle sizes, from 750 ml to 5 litres, will be presented at the auction.

“For the first time in history, Bonhams Wine is thrilled to present the first wines from Bhutan ever offered,” says Amayès Aouli, global head of wine and spirits for Bonhams, noting that “this marks a historic moment in the history of wine, bringing the Bhutanese unique terroir, spirituality, and craftsmanship to a global stage.”

Now, the question that lingers is: how is the wine? Most of the reviews have been favourable with a palpable excitement among many oenophiles—a new region and wine terroir uncorked is not an everyday occurrence. British wine critic and member of the Bhutan Wine Company’s advisory board, Jancis Robinson MW, expressed her enthusiasm for the project, stating that “the greatest thrill for me was tasting the first few wines which really do show great promise, with pure varietal flavours and excellent balance.” 

While her insights underscore the potential of Bhutan as a novelty in the global wine landscape, the unique Himalayan terroir is unlike any other, single-handedly redefining what is considered a wine region in the viticulture vernacular. In fact, this great frontier could change perception about outstanding wines from Asia, which does not get the level of attention that other territories do. As these Bhutanese bottles emerge at the table, it is that rare opportunity for the taste of a heavenly nectar. After all, Ser Kem was intended for the divine.

All images courtesy of Bonhams.