Frequently Asked Questions

Moncharm Wine Traders is a London-based fine wine merchant established in 2010. We specialise in building and managing private client wine portfolios for investors and collectors. With over 15 years’ experience, our focus is simple: transparency, data-driven selection, and full client ownership of assets. We operate from Victoria, London and are registered under the Alcohol Wholesaler Registration Scheme (AWRS Reg No: XKAW 000 0010 3864).

Moncharm was founded in 2010 and has guided private clients through multiple wine market cycles, including: - The 2011 Bordeaux correction - The 2016–2018 Burgundy surge - The 2022–2024 market consolidation - The current 2025 reset phase Experience in downturns matters more than experience in bull markets.

We offer a range of fine wine services including fine wine investment and collection management, storage solutions through our bonded warehouse in Fonthill Estate Vaults, UK, private cellar and in bond fine wine valuations and the sourcing of rare and hard to find wines.

Wine investment involves purchasing high-quality, limited-production fine wines with the intention of holding and selling them later for capital appreciation. Unlike many traditional assets: - Wine is a depleting asset (supply reduces as bottles are consumed) - It is CGT exempt in the UK under “wasting asset” rules - It shows historically low correlation to equities

Harvest shortages, a price correction & capital gains tax changes are a few reasons as to why investors are moving to fine wine. As with any investment, cycles will occour and 2026 marks a great entry point for investors.

Yes, wine investments in the UK are generally considered capital gains tax-free. This is because wine is categorised as a “wasting asset,” meaning if the vintage has a life expectancy of less than 50 years, it can be exempt it from capital gains tax under most circumstances. This tax advantage makes fine wine an attractive investment option. However, tax laws can be complex, so it’s always advisable to consult with a tax professional for personalised advice.

No investment is risk-free. Fine wine is exposed to: - Global economic conditions - Currency fluctuations - Trade policy changes (e.g. 2025 tariff uncertainty - Market sentiment However, wine historically demonstrates: - Lower volatility than equities - Tangible asset backing - Supply contraction over time Risk is managed through diversification and long-term holding.

A minimum holding period of 5 to 10 years is recommended for optimal returns.

Moncharm assists in selling your wine through established channels when the time is right. We will help ensure that your wine is sold at an optimal price when market conditions are favourable. Our services include providing market insights and handling the logistics of the sale, making the process straightforward and efficient. Typically, upon request a sale will be generated in 30 days.

Your wine is stored in the Fonthill Estate Vaults, a professional, climate-controlled facility that is specifically designed to preserve fine wine. This storage location maintains optimal conditions, such as temperature and humidity, to ensure the quality and value of your wine over time. This secure storage is crucial for protecting your investment and ensuring that the wine matures properly.

Wine is not regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), as it is considered a tangible asset rather than a financial product. However, in 2017, HMRC introduced the Alcohol Wholesaler Registration Scheme (AWRS) to regulate the sale of alcohol in the UK. This law ensures that businesses selling alcohol, including fine wines, meet strict standards to prevent fraud and ensure authenticity. At Moncharm Wine Traders, we comply with these regulations under AWRS number XKAW00000103864, ensuring a secure and trustworthy investment process for our clients.

Selection is based on: - Liv-ex trading data - Brand recognition - Production levels - Critic scores (Vinous, Wine Advocate, Jancis Robinson) - Drinking window timelines - Market depth

Yes. Your wine is stored in a bonded warehouse account in your own name. This is non-negotiable. Ownership transfer is documented and confirmed after purchase. We do not hold client wine under company accounts.

The Alcohol Wholesaler Registration Scheme (AWRS) was introduced by HMRC in 2017 to combat alcohol fraud. You can verify our registration via HMRC’s register. Always verify merchants. The unregulated nature of this market demands it.