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There's more to a wine auction catalogue than the wines themselves. From OWC and VTS to RP and JR, the terminology offers valuable insight into a wine's condition, provenance and reputation. Whether buying, selling or simply exploring the catalogue, understanding these details can make the experience all the more interesting and rewarding.
What's in the Box? OWC, OC and More
OWC (Original Wooden Case) is one of the most frequently encountered terms in fine wine auctions. It indicates that the wine is offered with its original wooden case, particularly desirable for Bordeaux and other collectible wines.
OC (Original Carton) refers to the original cardboard packaging.
Original packaging is often attractive to collectors, particularly when accompanied by a well-documented storage history. An unopened original case can be especially appealing, although the condition and provenance of the wine itself remain paramount.
Condition: Why a Few Centimetres Matter
One of the most important considerations when buying mature wine is ullage – the space between the wine and its closure. As wine ages, a small amount can naturally evaporate through the cork, gradually lowering the level in the bottle.
For Bordeaux-shaped bottles, several common abbreviations help describe the fill level:
BN (Base of Neck) – a good fill level for wines of almost any age.
VTS (Very Top Shoulder) – generally considered a good level for mature wines.
TS (Top Shoulder) – often acceptable in older bottles, particularly those with considerable age.
US (Upper Shoulder) – a lower fill, but not necessarily unusual for very mature wines.
MS (Mid Shoulder) – a level that warrants closer consideration, as the risk of deterioration increases.
For Burgundy and Champagne, levels are generally measured in centimetres rather than described by their position in the shoulder.
The condition of labels and capsules also tells part of the story. Terms such as SSL (Slightly Stained Label), SDL (Slightly Damaged Label), bin-soiled, scuffed capsule and signs of past seepage help describe the physical condition of individual bottles.
These observations are particularly useful when comparing older wines, where bottles of the same vintage can differ considerably in condition and value.
Provenance: The Story Behind the Bottle
A great wine and an exceptional vintage are only part of the picture. Where a wine has been, how it was purchased and how it has been stored can be equally important.
A case purchased en primeur and kept in professional, temperature-controlled storage may be especially attractive to collectors.
At Adam's, we consider provenance, storage history, packaging and the physical condition of bottles when preparing wines for auction. These details help us present each consignment accurately and give buyers the information they need to bid with confidence.
RP 98, JR 18.5, JS 97 – What Do the Scores Mean?
Alongside descriptions of condition and provenance, auction catalogues often reference tasting notes and scores from internationally recognised wine critics.
Some of the abbreviations you may encounter include:
RP – Robert Parker
JR – Jancis Robinson
JS – James Suckling
WS – Wine Spectator
NM – Neal Martin
BH – Burghound (Allen Meadows)
Most of these critics use a 100-point scoring system, while Jancis Robinson uses a 20-point scale.
Scores can be a useful guide to a wine's critical reputation, while tasting notes offer a more detailed impression of its character, style and development.
Of course, a high score doesn't tell the whole story. Rarity, provenance, condition and demand all play important roles in determining what a wine might achieve at auction.
Thinking of Selling Your Wine?
Adam's is now inviting consignments for our December Fine Wine & Spirits auctions.
Whether it's a single bottle or an entire collection, we'd be delighted to provide a complimentary valuation. Simply get in touch with details or photographs of your wines.
For valuations or further information, please contact our Fine Wine & Spirits department at Adam's.
Contact: Conor Barry at conor@adams.ie
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John ffrench was an instrumental figure in the design industry in Ireland and a distinguished pioneer of Irish studio pottery.
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"I should declare my hand. I have a weakness for pictures that punch above their physical weight, and for artists who have been quietly underrated for too long. This pair is both. They are intimate enough to live with at close quarters and serious enough to repay any amount of looking. If the market has lately shown signs of catching up with eighteenth-century Irish painting and I think it has, these two small panels feel, to me, like exactly the sort of thing that will look obvious in twenty years’ time."
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Through this article, let our expert Adam Pearson guiding you to the (re)discovery of the once established Irish painter Richard O’Neill.
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Oliver Dowling Collection by Aidan Dunne
James Adam & Sons Ltd, Fine Art Auctioneers and Valuers, 26 St. Stephen’s Green, Dublin 2,
D02 X665, Ireland
