How It Works
A transparent, four-step process from initial deposit to portfolio management.
1. Initial Deposit
Begin your investment journey with a secure online deposit using our Stripe payment system. This system is monitored and controlled so that your monies enter into a client account to make sure that your money investment is safe at all times
- Choose your investment level (minimum £5,000 recommended)
- Secure payment via bank transfer or card
- Funds held in a separate client account with Barclays Bank so that your monies are kept separate from our buying account/normal business account
- We then authorise to use your invested money into buying wine investment stock only, directed by IWI,
- 80/20 allocation: 80% wine acquisition, 20% storage & management
2. Portfolio Curation
Our expert team constructs your bespoke portfolio based on current market opportunities.
- Analysis of vintage quality and market pricing
- Negotiation with trusted suppliers and estates
- Diversification across regions and price points
- Full transparency with purchase rationale
3. Wine Acquisition & Transfer
Your selected wines are purchased and then transferred directly to your own personal account at 'The London Bonded Warehouse'.
- Once your money has been deposited, you will immediately receive a form from 'The London Bonded Warehouse'
- Complete and return the form to open your own personal storage account
- All of your wine will be stored in your personal account
- Your wine can only be sold at a later date with your authorisation only
- Complete documentation and provenance records maintained
4. Ongoing Management
Access your portfolio dashboard to track performance and receive regular market insights.
- Real-time portfolio valuation updates
- Quarterly market reports and analysis
- Professional exit strategy guidance
- Option to expand or diversify holdings
Full Transparency
Fine wine has consistently outperformed traditional investment classes with steady appreciation over decades.
Expert Curation
Market experience going back 30 years in selecting investment-grade wines with proven appreciation potential.
Exit Support
Comprehensive assistance with sales through our network of auction houses and private buyers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's included in the 20% allocation?
The 20% covers professional storage in bonded warehouses, comprehensive insurance, portfolio management, regular valuations, market analysis, and exit facilitation services. The storage and insurance period depends on your portfolio tier: 3 years for Starter, 5 years for Classic, and 10 years for Premium.
In addition IWI does not charge the average industry amount of 12% to sell your stock. In effect, IWI charges no selling fee. In addition your accumulated Storage and Insurance costs could be around 6% against the total amount you have invested – which you do not have to pay as IWI pays these costs on your behalf.
How long should I hold my investment?
Wine investments are deemed to be medium to long term investments, meaning 5 to 10 years plus with a minimum of 3 years. Fine wine typically appreciates most significantly over 5-15 years as bottles are consumed and scarcity increases.
Can I see my wine in person?
Yes, we can arrange visits to The London Bonded Warehouse with advance notice. Your wines are held in your personal account and you have full control over them.
What happens if I need to sell early?
While we recommend longer hold periods, you can exit at any time with your authorisation. We’ll facilitate sales through our network of merchants and auction houses, though early exit may impact returns.
