Gang des Grands Crus faces trial over fine wine thefts

In Bordeaux, twelve defendants linked to the notorious “gang des grands crus” have gone on trial over a string of cellar raids that saw more than 4,000 bottles of premium Bordeaux and Burgundy wines allegedly stolen and trafficked between 2019 and 2020. Valued at over €2.5m, the case has caught the attention of wine lovers and collectors worldwide.

French prosecutors are seeking heavy sentences, with the suspected ringleader, a 34-year-old with around twenty prior convictions, accused of co-ordinating thefts from thirteen cellars and warehouses, aided by wiretap evidence and recovered bottles. A Chinese restaurateur alleged to be the group’s main middleman could face six years in prison, while others risk penalties ranging from suspended terms to eight-year sentences.

The haul reportedly includes Château d’Yquem, Petrus and Romanée Conti.