Large-format wine bottles: magnums and double magnums

Magnums and double magnums hold a privileged place among large-format wine bottles. Sought after for their elegance, presence at the table and interest for ageing, they offer a more generous way to enjoy fine wines.

Thanks to their greater volume than a standard 75 cl bottle, these formats generally encourage slower and more harmonious wine evolution. They are especially appreciated for age-worthy wines, great vintages, exceptional meals and collector’s cellars.

Two large formats for sharing and cellaring

The magnum, with a capacity of 1.5 litres, is equivalent to 2 standard 75 cl bottles. It is the most emblematic of large formats, valued for its versatility, balance and elegance in service.

The double magnum, with a capacity of 3 litres, corresponds to 4 standard 75 cl bottles. More imposing, it stands out through its remarkable presence at the table and its appeal for grand occasions, meals bringing together several guests and wines intended to age.

• Magnum — 1.5 litres, equivalent to 2 bottles of 75 cl and around 10 glasses.
• Double magnum — 3 litres, equivalent to 4 bottles of 75 cl and around 20 glasses.
• Uses — Dinners, grand tables, celebrations, gifts, ageing cellars and collections.
• Associated wines — Bordeaux, Burgundy, Rhône Valley, Champagne, Italy and other major wine regions.

Preferred formats for ageing

Magnums and double magnums are particularly sought after for the way they support wine evolution over time. The ratio between the volume of wine and the amount of oxygen beneath the cork generally encourages more gradual maturation than in a standard bottle, helping preserve freshness, structure and aromatic complexity in fine wines.

This measured evolution explains their appeal among lovers of mature vintages and collectors, especially when it comes to fine red wines, prestige champagnes or cuvées from recognised estates.

Magnums and double magnums: elegance and conviviality

At the table, these large formats make it possible to serve several guests from the same wine, in the same vintage and with a beautiful consistency of tasting. The magnum is naturally suited to festive meals and moments of sharing, while the double magnum brings a more spectacular dimension to grand celebrations.

Their visual presence, relative rarity and interest for preservation make them desirable formats both for gifting and for enriching a cellar with bottles of character.

Provenance, preservation and selection

For an older magnum or double magnum, preservation remains essential. The wine level, provenance, storage conditions, as well as the integrity of the cork and capsule, should all be examined with care, particularly for sought-after vintages and bottles intended for ageing.

Our selection of magnums and double magnums highlights bottles chosen for their origin, condition, ageing potential and interest both at the table and in the cellar. Two exceptional formats for sharing, giving or cellaring fine wines in a more generous dimension.