We are delighted to offer, in our upcoming June sale, the in-bond collection of Laurence Orbach — a selection of rare and intriguing wines with exceptional provenance.
The collection features a range of eclectic mixed cases, alongside two original wooden cases (OWCs) of Château Latour 1965 in outstanding condition.
Lot 64 - CHATEAU LATOUR 1965 - THE ORBACH COLLECTION Estimate £4,600 - £6,000
Lot 65 - CHATEAU LATOUR 1965 - THE ORBACH COLLECTION, Estimate £4,600 - £6,000
These mixed lots reflect the breadth and diversity of Laurence’s collecting during his tenure as publisher of The World of Fine Wine magazine (often simply referred to as Fine Wine magazine). During this time, Laurence received samples for review and editorial consideration, as well as wines sent by producers for promotional purposes. Many of the bottles, however, were purchased personally and come directly from Laurence’s own cellar.
In the 1970s, Laurence and his wife Ruth spent their summers in rural France, in what Ruth fondly refers to as “an old ruin” — a property surrounded by vineyards. After purchasing the home from a local farmer, they returned to find that the vines had been uprooted and removed, having not been included in the sale. Rather than lamenting the loss, the couple’s curiosity and passion for wine were ignited.
Laurence co-founded the Quarto publishing group in 1976 and served as its CEO and Chairman until 2012. In 2004, Quarto launched The World of Fine Wine, a quarterly magazine that quickly attracted some of the world’s leading wine writers. As Chairman and CEO, Laurence enjoyed unparalleled access to top producers, importers, and critics. The publication broke new ground by elevating wine journalism beyond basic tasting notes and promotional content — described by Hugh Johnson as “the first cultural journal of the wine trade.”
Though Laurence and Ruth split their time between London and New York during his 36 years at Quarto, they gradually transitioned to full-time residence in New York. The wine collection was placed into storage, where it has remained — until now. Chiswick Auctions is honoured to have been entrusted with the valuation and cataloguing of this remarkable collection, rich in heritage and story.
Lot 73 - ORBACH COLLECTION MIXED FRENCH CASE, Estimate £1,200 - £2,200
The mixed cases are reminiscent of what we once called “Silver Lining” cases during my time at Oddbins — limited allocations of sought-after wines, like The Dead Arm from d’Arenberg or Cloudy Bay (in its heyday), bundled with other exciting selections. Customers keen to secure the stars of the case would also discover new favourites.
The Orbach Collection follows a similar philosophy. Each case is filled with curiosity, quality, and collectability — featuring highlights such as Château Mouton Rothschild, Dom Pérignon, and Château Latour. These are wines at their peak, but they also represent a unique chapter in the story of modern wine writing and appreciation.
Lot 84 - ORBACH COLLECTION MIXED CASE, Estimate £440 - £700
All lots are held in bond. All images courtesy of the bonded warehouse.
To consign to future wine sales please contact our specialist directly sam.hellyer@chiswickauctions.co.uk. Or submit via our Online Valuation form