Dating back many years, there is a history of Bordeaux wines being “pre-sold” around the world through a process known as “en primeur” – the concept is fairly simple, a “futures” purchase is made for wine that has not been bottled or released based on the quality of the vintage, reputation of the producer, initial reviews from wine critics and other factors.   With an increasing number of incredible small production, highly rated wines from around the world trying to make their way to the US market, this futures marketplace expands the en primeur concept in a way never done before.  While many US importers and distributors are hesitant to bring in these wines on a speculative basis, the retail market for these wines is booming. By developing a rotational program of highly-rated, small production “hidden gems,” retailers can drive customer engagement and excitement, while expanding margins.