At Estate Wine Brokers, it is our policy to inspect each and every bottle we sell to ensure the provenance and condition of our wines. In our inspection process, special attention is paid to the following items:

1.  Ullage/Fill Level - Is the fill level consistent with the age of the bottle? Bottles with base neck fills and above are totally acceptable for any age of wine, while top shoulder fills are acceptable only for wines that are 15-20 years of age or older. Wines with mid-shoulder fills and below are risky and are usually not accepted for sale unless the bottle is extremely old.

2.  Color - Generally speaking, red wine tends to get lighter in color as it ages, while white wine becomes darker over time. As such, is the depth of color consistent with the age of the bottle? Is there any browning, which is evidence of oxidization? Is the amount of sediment in the bottle appropriate?

3.  Label - Are the front and back labels on the bottle soiled, stained, or torn in any way? Wine stains on a label or bottle can indicate seepage, particularly if the bottle has a low fill level.

4.  Capsule - Has the capsule been torn significantly, worn, or cut? Is the capsule corroded? Is it stuck to the glass (a possible sign of seepage), or does it turn freely around the neck of the bottle?

5.  Bottle - Is the bottle made from glass that is specific to the time period in which it was produced? Is there anything unusual to note?

6.  Cork - Does the cork appear sound and taut, or does it withdraw into the bottle when pressed? Is it protruding from the bottle (a sure sign of heat damage)?  

Every wine on our website has passed through this rigorous process and can be purchased with total confidence.