Definition: iDealwine

The three founders: Angélique de Lencquesaing (centre), Lionel Cuenca (left) and Cyrille Jomand (right).

Launched in 2001 by three former Euronext employees, iDealwine offers three types of sales: auctions (in-person or online), fixed-price sales and private sales (rare vintages). Their promise: "To enable our customers to find rare bottles and make discoveries at a good price." The company is growing rapidly: €11 million in turnover in 2012 (compared to €8 million in 2010), €223,000 in profits in 2012 (compared to €67,000 in 2009), and 18 employees (compared to 17). Non-auction activity is growing the most (35% of turnover).

Although it often varies, the catalogue always features a wide range of big names (Petrus, La Romanée-Conti, etc.), rare vintages (1982, 1945, etc.) and large formats (double magnums, etc.). The provenance of the wines for resale is not known to the buyer, but an auctioneer guarantees the condition of each bottle.

Currently, the 2007 Pape Clément white is selling for €125 (€199 on Wine and Co, €201 on 1855, etc.). The site's commission (16.5% of the lot price) must be added to this price. Delivery costs are reasonable (from €5.90 for one bottle and €12 for 12 bottles) and there is a generous referral programme (€15 voucher for the referrer and the referee if their first order reaches €90).

We received our order within four working days (compared to the 14 days advertised). Deliveries are available in Europe and Asia. Members (free membership) have access to a huge database of wine prices. It's a shame that the three types of sale aren't explained more clearly and that American Express cards aren't accepted. La Revue du Vin de France's opinion: A must! Great wines, attractive prices, satisfactory service... You can order with confidence.

Source: Article published in La Revue du Vin de France, issue 555, October 2011 - Audrey Dubourdieu.

But since then, everything has evolved very quickly to become a much more efficient platform.