This listing is for a rare, authentic empty collectible bottle of the legendary 1945 Château d'Yquem Lur-Saluces Sauternes, widely considered one of the greatest vintages of the 20th century (the historic "Victory Vintage"). The glass exhibits a beautiful, classic light green hue with a deep traditional punt base showing rich, dark sediment residue at the bottom rim, testifying to its decades of aging. The primary label remains intact with authentic age-toning, localized staining, and minor edge wear. It features the iconic Lur-Saluces crown emblem, "Sauternes-Appellation Contrôlée", and the historic "1945" vintage year. The original cork has been preserved and pushed back into the neck, surrounded by remnants of its golden foil capsule. A secondary vintage auction or cellar lot label ("LOT 998") is present near the base, adding an additional layer of historical provenance. Perfect for high-end bar cart displays, wine cellar decor, or discerning collectors of historic viticulture ephemera.

Origin: Sauternes, Bordeaux, France

Age: Vintage (1945 / Mid-20th Century)

Material: Mouth-blown or early machine-molded green glass, natural cork, paper label.

Condition: Good Antique/Vintage Condition (Empty Bottle). The glass structure is free of cracks, chips, or fractures. The main paper label shows heavy vintage patina, staining, foxing, and minor corner paper loss consistent with 80+ years of cellar aging. The lower lot label is heavily faded but legible. Heavy, dried sediment is visibly settled around the interior bottom perimeter, which collectors highly value as a marker of age and authenticity.

Literature Reference

• Book Title: Château d'Yquem

• Author: Richard Olney

• Page Reference: Page 148 (Discussing the historic climate, legendary low yields, and unparalleled concentration of the monumental 1945 postwar vintage).

Authenticity Assessment

This piece presents multiple textbook physical markers confirming its period authenticity. The label utilizes correct mid-century lithographic typography, showing authentic oxidative browning (foxing) and adhesive degradation that cannot be easily replicated by modern reproductions. The green glass formulation displays slight characteristic irregularities, a prominent hand-finished style shoulder alignment, and a deeply recessed push-up (punt) base. Crucially, the bottom interior features hardened, crystallized, near-black tartrate and sugar sediment characteristic of high-sugar botrytized Sauternes wines aged for multiple decades. The presence of the weathered "Lot 998" secondary label further verifies its history through traditional auction or private cellar cataloging rather than modern counterfeiting.

**As with all museum-quality vintage ephemera and historic cellar glass, this item is sold strictly as-found, as-described, and as-photographed. We maintain a policy of leaving all original surfaces, cellar dust, and historical paper wear completely untouched to preserve maximum investment value for the collector. Please review all high-resolution images carefully to anchor your own final evaluation before bidding.**

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Item Description and Condition Disclaimer

We take great care in researching, identifying, and describing each antique item to the best of our ability, drawing on available resources and hands-on examination. However, as dedicated enthusiasts rather than professional appraisers or certified experts, we cannot offer guarantees on authenticity, age, origin, or precise valuation. We strongly recommend that buyers perform their own due diligence, including consulting reference materials or experts, and thoroughly examine the accompanying photographs. These images are an essential component of our listing and depict the item's actual condition, including any visible flaws, wear, or imperfections consistent with its antique nature. It is the buyer's responsibility to inspect each lot and form their own assessment on condition, description and authenticity before purchasing. All items have signs of wear commensurate with age and usage. The lack of statement regarding condition does not imply that the item is in perfect condition or free from any and all defects. If you have any questions regarding the condition of the items, please ask and we will be more than happy to answer and/or provide additional photos as requested.

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