Bottle Inspection & Authentication Process

Bottle Inspection & Authentication Process

At Rue Pinard, we are committed to offering only the finest and most authentic bottles in our auctions. Our dedicated in-house authentication team, led by Managing Director Bart Laming, meticulously inspects each bottle to ensure quality, authenticity, and provenance. Every bottle undergoes a detailed multi-step inspection to uphold the highest standards.

1. Authentication Process

Our team of specialists carefully examines each bottle to detect potential counterfeits, confirm its authenticity, and verify provenance. The process includes:

  • Label Analysis – Checking for inconsistencies, misprints, aging patterns, and proper branding elements.
  • Capsule & Seal Inspection – Ensuring the integrity of the wax, foil, or metal seals and identifying any signs of tampering.
  • Bottle & Glass Markings – Verifying bottle embossing, laser codes, and lot numbers.
  • Provenance Verification – Cross-checking serial numbers, collector history, and auction records to confirm authenticity.

2. Quality & Condition Check

To maintain premium auction standards, we adhere to strict quality guidelines. Our inspection criteria include:

Wine, Champagne, Port & Fortified Wines

  • Fill Level Requirements
    • Wine & Champagne: Acceptable fill levels range from neck, base neck, to high shoulder. Fill levels below mid-shoulder are generally not accepted unless commercially valuable.
    • Port, Sherry & Madeira: Due to oxidation resistance, slightly lower fill levels may be accepted, but those far below low shoulder are rejected.
  • Label Condition
    • Labels should be legible and intact, with minimal staining or damage.
    • Heavily torn, unreadable, or missing labels may result in rejection.
  • Capsule & Cork Integrity
    • Metal or wax capsules must be fully intact and untampered.
    • Corks that have shrunk excessively or show needle marks indicate potential refilling and are not accepted.
  • Storage & Aging Impact
    • Bottles stored in excessively moist or dry conditions may show mold, corrosion, or crumbling paper labels, affecting valuation.

Whisky, Cognac, Rum & Fine Spirits

  • Sealed Bottles Only
    • Bottles must retain their original seal. Opened or tampered bottles are rejected.
    • Empty, display, or dummy bottles are not accepted.
  • Clarity & Fill Level
    • Whisky must be clear, not hazy or cloudy.
    • Acceptable fill levels must be at least low-shoulder or above.
  • Packaging & Accessories
    • Original packaging (boxes, cases) enhances value.
    • Collectible accessories (branded glassware, decanters, or sabres) must be in premium condition.

3. Photography & Documentation

To provide bidders with full transparency, all bottles are documented with high-resolution images that capture:

  • Front & back labels
  • Capsule and cork from all angles
  • Fill level measurements
  • Packaging & accessories (if applicable)

All bottles are listed with detailed descriptions, including:

  • Vintage/Bottling Year
  • Producer & Classification
  • Alcohol by Volume & Bottle Size
  • Fill Level & Label Condition
  • Storage & Provenance Details

4. Safe Handling & Secure Packaging

Once a bottle passes inspection, we ensure it is safely prepared for shipping:

  • Wrapped in protective cling film/parafilm for capsule and label preservation.
  • Secured in inflatable airbags or thick polystyrene protectors.
  • Tracked & insured shipping for safe delivery to the winning bidder.

Commitment to Excellence

Every bottle offered in our auctions has been thoroughly reviewed by our team of expert authenticators. We take pride in maintaining a marketplace where collectors and enthusiasts can buy with confidence and trust.

For any inquiries regarding our inspection process or submission guidelines, please contact office@ruepinard.com.