Cameron Hughes launches de Negoce
Wine negociant, Cameron Hughes, recently announced his new wine project. It is called de Negoce (day-NA-go-SHAY). Loosely translated it means “of the trade.” The name refers to the French “en primeur” system of offering wine, still in barrels, to customers before bottling and release. This allows customers to purchase highly regarded wines at attractive pre-release prices. This “futures” system is the basis of Cameron Hughes’ de Negoce project.
In 2001, Hughes co-founded Cameron Hughes Wines. By offering premium wines sold through a digital e-comm platform, competitive prices were possible and the brand exploded. Cameron Hughes Wines was considered one of America’s top e-commerce brands and was acquired by Treasury Wine Estates in 2017. Hughes’ new project will be built on the successful grower relations he has cultivated, the deep connections he has made during the 16-year run on his eponymous brand.
The de Negoce process is simple. First, go to the website www.deNegoce.com and sign up to be on the list. Negociant Hughes will source compelling high end “bulk” wine, complete the final blend and negotiate a final price. Once under contract, a “pre-arrival” offer is made to those on the list at an incredible price. The offer stays until the wine is sold out. Emails will be sent out to the list based on sign-up dates. Wines are sold by the 12 bottle case only.
The first de Negoce release includes a 2018 Napa Valley Cabernet, a 2017 Stagecoach Vineyard Cabernet and a 2018 Coombsville Bordeaux blend. Pricing is expected to range from $120 to $180 per case and depending on availability, quantities will average about 1,000 cases. Buyers are limited to purchasing one case at a time. Subscribers may opt out at any time. Hughes is certain he will have a waiting list once people taste the quality and see the price. Are you ready for a $10 Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon delivered to your door? All you have to do is sign up.
What’s On Our Table
The Steal: The Trader Moon 2018 Venetian Moon Pinot Grigio, a Gold Medal winner in the Sunset Tasting is just $5.95 at Trader Joe’s.
The Deal: Sunsets’s Best of Class, a Double Gold and a score of 97 went to the 2017 Alamos Red Blend from Argentina. It is under $10 and available in local markets.
The Splurge: Syrah lovers should track down the 2018 Eberle Paso Robles from the Steinbeck Vineyard. Planted in 1975, the vines were propagated from Chapoutier’s vines in Tain-l’ Hermitage. It’s 100% Syrah and a great buy at $32. Cheers!
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This story was originally published August 11, 2020 at 11:24 AM.