The search to establish the highest-valued glowing wine from the Champagne area of France results in examination of a number of elements past easy grape varietals and manufacturing strategies. The time period refers back to the bottle or model commanding the best market worth, a determine typically influenced by rarity, status, and historic significance.
These top-tier choices characterize not merely a beverage, but additionally a logo of luxurious and exclusivity. Their elevated price could be attributed to restricted manufacturing runs, distinctive vintages, elaborate packaging, and the model’s total picture. Possession regularly signifies a celebration of success, marking vital milestones, or representing a considerable funding.
The next sections will delve into particular examples of champagnes identified for his or her distinctive worth factors, exploring the main points that contribute to their perceived worth and desirability inside the world market.
1. Rarity
Rarity performs a pivotal function in figuring out the worth of a champagne, considerably impacting its place inside the hierarchy of costly glowing wines. The extra scarce a selected bottle, the higher its attract and, consequently, its worth. This shortage can stem from numerous elements intrinsic to the manufacturing and historic context of the champagne.
-
Restricted Manufacturing Vintages
Champagne homes could solely declare a classic 12 months in distinctive rising seasons. The wines produced from these years are inherently rarer than non-vintage (NV) champagnes, which mix grapes from a number of years. A classic declared in a very small amount additional amplifies the exclusivity and worth. For example, a champagne from a 12 months severely impacted by frost or hail would have a considerably decrease manufacturing quantity, making every bottle extremely wanted.
-
Restricted Version Releases
Sure champagne homes launch restricted version bottles or cuves to commemorate particular occasions or collaborations. These releases typically characteristic distinctive packaging, distinct grape blends, or modern winemaking methods. The restricted amount, coupled with the distinctive story behind the champagne, elevates its collectibility and worth. These are typically produced in minuscule amount, making acquisition tough.
-
Historic and Misplaced Vintages
Champagnes from considerably older vintages, notably those who predate trendy winemaking practices, possess a definite historic significance. Bottles which have survived for many years, and even centuries, are exceedingly uncommon. Components resembling correct storage situations and preservation contribute to their continued existence, and authenticated bottles from such vintages can command astronomical costs at public sale. Figuring out and verifying real historic bottles represents a specialised space of experience.
-
“Methuselah” or Different Massive Format Bottles
Bottle measurement influences collectibility. A typical 750ml bottle is much less uncommon than a “Methuselah” (6 liters) or bigger format. These giant format bottles are sometimes produced in far fewer numbers, making them extra unique. The sheer scale of the bottle, mixed with the perceived getting old advantages of bigger codecs, considerably elevates their worth. Filling, corking, and dealing with these huge bottles current distinct logistical challenges, additional contributing to their rarity.
In conclusion, the idea of rarity, whether or not tied to distinctive vintages, restricted version releases, historic significance, or bottle measurement, serves as a main driver in elevating the champagne to the highest tier of costly and collectible glowing wines. The intersection of those rarity elements determines the last word market worth.
2. Classic
Within the realm of costly champagne, the “Classic” designation signifies a pivotal issue contributing to elevated worth factors. A classic champagne is produced solely from grapes harvested in a single, distinctive 12 months, setting it aside from non-vintage blends, which mix grapes from a number of years to attain a constant home model.
-
Distinctive Rising Circumstances
Champagne homes declare a classic solely in years the place weather conditions are deemed distinctive, leading to grapes of superior high quality and character. Favorable climate patterns all through the rising season, together with optimum sunshine, rainfall, and temperature, contribute to the event of complicated flavors and balanced acidity within the grapes. Consequently, champagnes from these classic years are thought-about extra age-worthy and possess higher potential for growth over time. Manufacturing volumes for classic champagnes are inherently decrease than non-vintage blends, as a result of stringent necessities for classic declaration, additional contributing to their exclusivity and better market worth.
-
Prolonged Getting older Potential
Classic champagnes sometimes bear prolonged getting old on their lees (spent yeast cells) within the bottle, a course of often known as sur lie getting old. This extended contact with the lees imparts higher complexity, richness, and textural depth to the wine. The prolonged getting old interval additionally permits for the event of tertiary aromas and flavors, additional enhancing the champagne’s character and desirability. Classic champagnes are typically thought to be having superior getting old potential in comparison with non-vintage counterparts, making them enticing to collectors looking for long-term investments.
-
Classic Particular Traits
Every classic 12 months possesses distinctive traits that mirror the precise rising situations of that individual season. This variability can manifest in a variety of taste profiles, fragrant nuances, and structural parts. Sommeliers and wine critics typically analyze and evaluate completely different classic years, highlighting the distinctive qualities of every. The expression of vintage-specific traits contributes to the individuality and collectibility of those champagnes, making them extremely wanted by connoisseurs.
-
Shortage and Collectibility
The restricted manufacturing volumes and distinctive qualities related to classic champagnes contribute to their shortage available in the market. Collectors actively search out uncommon and extremely rated vintages, driving up costs at public sale and in personal gross sales. The perceived worth of a classic champagne is usually amplified by its historic significance, because it represents a tangible file of a selected 12 months’s rising situations and winemaking practices. The intersection of shortage, high quality, and historic relevance contributes to the elevated worth factors noticed for top-tier classic champagnes.
The elements related to classic designation converge to exert a considerable affect on the perceived price and last market worth of champagne. The mixture of distinctive local weather, manufacturing and inherent shortage contribute to the status and excessive costs noticed inside the high-quality wine market. The pursuit of those distinctive vintages stays a driving drive within the exploration of “what’s the most costly champagne”.
3. Model Status
Model status operates as a major determinant of worth available in the market for costly champagne. The status, historical past, and perceived exclusivity related to a selected champagne home instantly correlate with its capacity to command premium pricing.
-
Historic Legacy and Heritage
Champagne homes with long-standing histories, typically courting again centuries, possess a novel benefit. The gathered experience, traditions, and tales surrounding these homes contribute to an aura of authenticity and status. For instance, homes like Louis Roederer or Pol Roger, with their established lineages and royal warrants, profit from a perceived inherent worth that interprets into larger costs for his or her flagship cuves. This historic weight gives a basis for shopper confidence and model loyalty, instantly impacting willingness to pay a premium.
-
Repute for High quality and Consistency
A constant monitor file of manufacturing high-quality champagnes, classic after classic, is essential for sustaining model status. Homes that display meticulous consideration to element in grape choice, vinification methods, and getting old protocols set up a status for excellence. This status, typically bolstered by constant excessive scores from wine critics and publications, assures customers of a sure stage of high quality and class. Sustaining such requirements over time necessitates vital funding in each human capital and infrastructure, prices which might be inevitably mirrored within the last product worth.
-
Advertising and Perceived Exclusivity
Advertising methods that emphasize exclusivity and luxurious play a major function in shaping model notion. Restricted manufacturing runs, collaborations with high-profile designers or artists, and strategic placement in unique venues all contribute to a picture of rarity and desirability. Manufacturers like Dom Prignon, for instance, domesticate a robust affiliation with superstar endorsements and high-end occasions, additional reinforcing their status and justifying their premium pricing. This rigorously curated picture fosters a way of aspiration and exclusivity amongst customers, driving demand and supporting larger worth factors.
-
Distribution Networks and World Presence
The extent and high quality of a champagne home’s distribution community considerably impression its model status. A presence in high-end eating places, luxurious lodges, and unique retailers all over the world indicators a sure stage of recognition and acceptance inside discerning shopper circles. Restricted distribution, even artificially imposed, can additional improve the notion of exclusivity and drive up costs. Moreover, a robust world presence reinforces model recognition and reinforces the notion of the champagne home as a number one participant available in the market, translating to higher pricing energy.
These facetshistorical legacy, constant high quality, strategic advertising and marketing, and sturdy distributioncollectively contribute to the model status that underpins the pricing of costly champagnes. Whereas intrinsic qualities resembling grape varietals and winemaking methods definitely play a task, the intangible worth related to the model itself is a strong driver of demand and worth appreciation within the luxurious market.
4. Manufacturing Strategies
The processes employed in creating champagne considerably affect its final valuation. These strategies, typically steeped in custom and demanding meticulous execution, contribute on to the standard, complexity, and shortage that outline the higher echelon of costly glowing wines.
-
Hand Harvesting
Many prestigious champagne homes adhere to the observe of hand harvesting, deciding on grapes with precision and care. This guide course of permits for the identification and sorting of solely the highest-quality fruit, minimizing injury and stopping the inclusion of unripe or diseased grapes. Hand harvesting is labor-intensive and dear, instantly contributing to the upper manufacturing prices related to premium champagnes. This observe additionally allows a gentler dealing with of the grapes, preserving their delicate flavors and aromas. For example, vineyards famend for his or her Pinot Noir grapes could prioritize hand harvesting to make sure optimum fruit choice, which instantly impacts the champagne’s construction and complexity.
-
Light Urgent
The way during which grapes are pressed is essential to the ultimate product’s high quality. Premium champagne producers typically make use of light urgent methods, utilizing conventional Coquard presses that reduce the extraction of harsh tannins and undesirable flavors from the grape skins and seeds. This cautious method yields a cleaner, extra elegant juice, which kinds the muse for a refined and nuanced champagne. By limiting the strain utilized throughout urgent, producers can management the extraction of particular compounds, tailoring the juice to their desired model. This management is especially vital for attaining the fragile stability attribute of the most costly champagne.
-
Prolonged Lees Getting older
The observe of getting old champagne “sur lie,” or on its lees (spent yeast cells), for prolonged intervals is a trademark of high-quality manufacturing. This course of permits for autolysis, the breakdown of yeast cells, which contributes complicated flavors, creamy textures, and enhanced stability to the wine. The longer the champagne stays in touch with its lees, the higher the impression on its character. This getting old interval requires vital time and capital funding, because it ties up stock for years. The ensuing complexity and richness, nevertheless, are key elements in elevating the value and desirability of premium champagnes. A few of the most costly examples bear lees getting old for upwards of a decade, leading to distinctive depth and class.
-
Remuage and Dgorgement
The standard methodology of riddling (remuage) and disgorgement is one other labor-intensive course of that contributes to the price of premium champagne. Remuage entails regularly turning every bottle the other way up over a number of weeks to gather the sediment (lees) within the neck. This course of is usually carried out manually by expert riddlers. Disgorgement then entails freezing the neck of the bottle and expelling the frozen sediment, forsaking a transparent, glowing wine. Whereas some producers have adopted automated strategies, many nonetheless adhere to the normal guide methods, that are perceived to end in a higher-quality product. The precision and ability required for remuage and dgorgement contribute to the general price and exclusivity of costly champagne.
The confluence of those meticulous manufacturing strategies, from hand harvesting to prolonged lees getting old and conventional remuage, underscores the dedication to high quality and craftsmanship that characterizes the most costly champagne. These practices, demanding each time and experience, considerably impression the ultimate product’s taste profile, complexity, and total worth.
5. Historic Significance
The intersection of historic significance and the worth of top-tier champagnes is a posh interaction. Bottles possessing a verifiable hyperlink to noteworthy occasions, figures, or intervals typically command costs exceeding these decided solely by intrinsic qualities or manufacturing strategies. The attract of proudly owning a bit of historical past contributes considerably to the desirability and, consequently, the expense related to sure champagnes.
-
Royal Provenance and Affiliation
Champagnes related to royal households or vital historic figures regularly attain elevated standing and worth. Bottles bearing royal warrants, or these demonstrably consumed at landmark occasions, purchase an added layer of status. For instance, a champagne identified to have been loved by a distinguished monarch or used throughout a major treaty signing good points substantial historic weight. Collectors are sometimes prepared to pay a premium for such artifacts, viewing them as tangible connections to the previous. Authentication of such provenance is essential, typically requiring skilled verification and documentation.
-
Shipwrecks and Salvaged Bottles
Champagne recovered from shipwrecks represents a novel class of traditionally vital bottles. The situations of underwater storage, whereas typically difficult, can surprisingly protect the wine in distinctive situation. The rarity and intrigue surrounding these salvaged bottles contribute considerably to their market worth. The circumstances of the shipwreck itself, and the next restoration efforts, add to the narrative and improve the attract for collectors. Scientific evaluation can typically reveal details about the winemaking practices of the time, additional including to their historic curiosity.
-
Commemorative Editions and Celebratory Occasions
Champagnes produced to commemorate particular historic occasions or anniversaries additionally maintain heightened historic significance. These commemorative editions typically characteristic distinctive packaging or labels that mirror the occasion being celebrated. The restricted manufacturing runs and the affiliation with a selected second in historical past contribute to their collectibility and worth. Examples embrace champagnes launched to mark vital milestones in a nation’s historical past or the anniversary of a famend artist or composer.
-
Vintages Reflecting Vital World Occasions
Champagnes from vintages coinciding with pivotal historic moments may purchase added worth. For example, a champagne produced throughout a interval of serious political or social upheaval could also be seen as a symbolic illustration of that period. Whereas the wine itself is probably not instantly linked to the occasion, the affiliation in time provides a layer of historic intrigue. Collectors could search out these vintages as a approach to join with a particular interval in historical past, viewing the bottle as a tangible reminder of the previous.
The historic significance attributed to sure champagnes demonstrably influences their market worth. Whether or not by way of royal provenance, shipwreck restoration, commemorative editions, or classic associations with vital occasions, the attract of proudly owning a bit of historical past provides a tangible premium to the value, solidifying their place inside the echelon of high-valued champagnes.
6. Bottle Dimension
The quantity a champagne bottle incorporates exerts a substantial affect on its market worth, contributing considerably to its classification as one of the crucial worthwhile. The rise in worth just isn’t merely proportional to the quantity; bigger codecs typically command disproportionately larger costs as a consequence of a mix of things associated to perceived worth and rarity.
-
Ratio of Wine to Air
Bigger codecs typically exhibit slower getting old in comparison with normal 750ml bottles. This slower evolution is attributed to a smaller floor space of wine in touch with air inside the bottle, permitting for a extra gradual growth of complicated flavors and aromas over time. Consequently, a bigger bottle of the identical classic is usually thought-about to own a superior getting old potential, making it extra fascinating to collectors looking for long-term funding and enhanced ingesting experiences. A Methuselah (6 liters) of a classic champagne, for example, is perhaps anticipated to age extra gracefully than its standard-sized counterpart.
-
Notion of Grandeur and Celebration
Bigger format bottles inherently convey a way of spectacle and celebration. Their imposing measurement makes them best for grand occasions and gatherings, including a visible ingredient of luxurious and extravagance. A Nebuchadnezzar (15 liters) or a Solomon (20 liters) instantly indicators a major event, additional enhancing the perceived worth of the champagne. This inherent affiliation with momentous celebrations elevates the standing and desirability of those bigger codecs, translating into larger market costs.
-
Rarity and Manufacturing Limitations
Manufacturing of bigger format bottles is considerably tougher and dear in comparison with standard-sized bottles. Filling, corking, and dealing with these huge containers require specialised tools and experience. The elevated danger of breakage throughout manufacturing and transportation additionally contributes to the restricted availability of bigger codecs. This shortage, coupled with the logistical complexities, drives up manufacturing prices and, consequently, the retail worth. A restricted run of a selected classic in Jeroboam (3 liters) format will inherently be dearer than the usual bottling as a consequence of this manufacturing constraint.
-
Collectibility and Funding Potential
Bigger format champagne bottles are extremely wanted by collectors and buyers as a consequence of their rarity, getting old potential, and visible attraction. These bottles are sometimes seen as tangible belongings, able to appreciating in worth over time. Their restricted availability and affiliation with luxurious make them enticing additions to high-value wine cellars. Because of this, bigger codecs persistently outperform standard-sized bottles in auctions and personal gross sales, solidifying their place as worthwhile and fascinating commodities. A Melchior (18 liters) of a prized classic, for example, could command a considerably larger worth than the equal quantity in normal bottles as a consequence of its collectibility.
The affect of bottle measurement on pricing intertwines with elements of getting old dynamics, visible attraction, manufacturing complexities and collectibility. The elevated worth factors mirror the intersection of shortage, luxurious notion, and the potential for superior getting old traits, affirming that bigger codecs are key elements within the pursuit of the most costly champagne.
7. Provenance
In assessing the worth of premium champagne, particularly when contemplating “what’s the most costly champagne,” provenance emerges as a vital determinant. Provenance encompasses the documented historical past of a bottle, tracing its possession, storage situations, and authenticity. Its affect on pricing displays the peace of mind of high quality, legitimacy, and rarity it gives to potential consumers.
-
Chain of Possession and Authentication
A transparent and unbroken chain of possession, supported by verifiable documentation, is paramount. This documentation could embrace unique buy receipts, invoices from respected wine retailers, or information from established public sale homes. Authentication by acknowledged consultants or our bodies additional validates the bottle’s authenticity and confirms its classic, manufacturing methodology, and origin. A documented historical past minimizes the danger of counterfeit or improperly saved champagne, thereby considerably enhancing its worth. For instance, a bottle authenticated by a famend champagne skilled and traced again to a prestigious personal assortment would command a considerably larger worth than an analogous bottle missing such provenance.
-
Storage Circumstances and Preservation
Detailed information of storage situations, together with temperature, humidity, and lightweight publicity, present essential insights into the bottle’s preservation. Champagne requires particular environmental controls to take care of its high quality and stop degradation. Proof of constant storage inside knowledgeable wine cellar or a personal assortment adhering to rigorous requirements considerably bolsters its worth. Conversely, proof of improper storage, resembling publicity to extreme warmth or daylight, can drastically scale back its price. Documentation verifying adherence to optimum storage protocols assures potential consumers of the champagne’s integrity and potential for continued getting old.
-
Rarity and Historic Context
Provenance intertwines with the historic context of a selected champagne. If a bottle could be linked to a major occasion, particular person, or location, its worth will increase considerably. This affiliation could stem from possession by a notable determine, presence at a historic celebration, or restoration from a traditionally vital web site, resembling a shipwreck. Clear documentation establishing this connection provides a layer of intrigue and exclusivity, making the bottle extra fascinating to collectors. The verifiable historical past and narrative surrounding the champagne, reasonably than solely its intrinsic qualities, contribute to its elevated worth level.
-
Affect on Public sale Worth
The impact of provenance is acutely evident within the public sale market. Champagnes with impeccable and well-documented provenance persistently obtain larger costs than comparable bottles missing such documentation. Bidders at public sale typically rely closely on provenance to evaluate the authenticity, situation, and collectibility of a selected lot. The presence of respected public sale home certifications, skilled opinions, and historic information gives assurance and fosters confidence amongst potential consumers, driving up aggressive bidding. The public sale setting vividly demonstrates the direct correlation between sturdy provenance and the dedication of “what’s the most costly champagne”.
In conclusion, provenance acts as a keystone within the valuation of remarkable champagne. It intertwines authenticity, preservation, historic significance, and market worth, with the dearth thereof significantly diminishing the worth. The search to determine sturdy provenance requires diligent record-keeping, skilled verification, and a deep understanding of the historic context surrounding every bottle, solidifying its place in establishing the worth of what’s perceived as probably the most worthwhile Champagne.
Ceaselessly Requested Questions
The next part addresses frequent inquiries concerning the elements that contribute to the elevated costs noticed in sure champagne choices. These solutions goal to supply readability on the complicated dynamics of worth inside the luxurious beverage market.
Query 1: What main elements contribute to a champagne’s excessive worth?
A number of parts converge to affect the value. Rarity, typically stemming from restricted manufacturing vintages or particular releases, is a key driver. Model status, reflecting the status and historic significance of the champagne home, additionally contributes. Manufacturing strategies, resembling hand-harvesting and prolonged lees getting old, additional impression the price. Lastly, provenance, or the documented historical past of the bottle, can considerably improve worth.
Query 2: How does classic have an effect on a champagne’s worth?
Classic champagnes, produced solely from grapes harvested in a single, distinctive 12 months, are typically dearer than non-vintage blends. The declaration of a classic signifies favorable rising situations and grapes of superior high quality. This contributes to prolonged getting old potential, distinctive taste profiles, and elevated collectibility, all of which elevate the value.
Query 3: What function does model status play in figuring out a champagne’s price?
Champagne homes with long-standing histories, constant high quality, and efficient advertising and marketing methods command larger costs. The gathered experience, traditions, and status for excellence related to prestigious manufacturers contribute to an aura of exclusivity and desirability. Shoppers are sometimes prepared to pay a premium for the peace of mind of high quality and class related to these established manufacturers.
Query 4: Why are bigger format champagne bottles dearer?
Bigger format bottles, resembling Methuselahs or Nebuchadnezzars, command disproportionately larger costs as a consequence of a mix of things. They typically exhibit slower getting old, convey a way of grandeur and celebration, are produced in restricted portions, and are extremely wanted by collectors. The logistical challenges and elevated manufacturing prices related to these bigger codecs additional contribute to their elevated worth.
Query 5: What’s provenance and why is it vital?
Provenance refers back to the documented historical past of a champagne bottle, together with its chain of possession, storage situations, and authentication. Sturdy provenance gives assurance of high quality, legitimacy, and rarity, minimizing the danger of counterfeit or improperly saved champagne. Bottles with verifiable and well-documented histories persistently obtain larger costs at public sale and in personal gross sales.
Query 6: Can storage situations considerably impression a champagne’s worth?
Sure, improper storage can drastically scale back the worth. Champagne requires particular environmental controls to take care of its high quality and stop degradation. Publicity to extreme warmth, daylight, or fluctuating temperatures can negatively impression the wine’s taste, aroma, and total situation. Detailed information of constant storage inside knowledgeable wine cellar or a personal assortment adhering to rigorous requirements considerably improve its worth.
Understanding these parts gives a framework for appreciating the intricate elements driving the marketplace for premium glowing wines. These issues prolong past easy style preferences to embody a posh interaction of historical past, manufacturing, and notion.
The following phase of the article will discover the funding potential associated to sure high-end champagne vintages and types.
Insights for Navigating Excessive-Worth Champagne Acquisitions
The next gives steering for people contemplating the acquisition of costly champagnes, emphasizing cautious diligence and knowledgeable decision-making. The following tips are structured to help in mitigating danger and maximizing potential worth retention.
Tip 1: Analysis Model Historical past and Repute. Previous to any buy, completely examine the champagne home’s historical past, winemaking philosophy, and important reception. Established homes with long-standing reputations for high quality and consistency sometimes provide extra steady long-term worth. Study previous efficiency and important acclaim to evaluate the model’s total standing inside the luxurious market.
Tip 2: Scrutinize Classic Declarations. Perceive the importance of classic years and the precise situations that led to their declaration. Seek the advice of respected classic charts and skilled opinions to evaluate the standard and getting old potential of explicit vintages. Acknowledge that not all classic years are created equal, and cautious analysis is important.
Tip 3: Confirm Provenance and Storage Historical past. Rigorously confirm the provenance of any potential buy, guaranteeing a transparent and unbroken chain of possession. Request detailed documentation concerning storage situations, together with temperature, humidity, and lightweight publicity. Examine the status of the vendor and search assurances concerning the authenticity and situation of the bottle.
Tip 4: Perceive Bottle Dimension Dynamics. Acknowledge the value premiums related to bigger format bottles and assess their suitability for meant use or funding technique. Whereas bigger codecs provide enhanced getting old potential and visible attraction, in addition they current logistical challenges and will require specialised storage amenities. Contemplate whether or not the extra price aligns with the meant function.
Tip 5: Seek the advice of with Specialists and Appraisers. Search steering from skilled wine appraisers, sommeliers, or collectors with experience in high-value champagnes. Receive skilled assessments of authenticity, situation, and market worth prior to creating any substantial funding. Skilled session can present worthwhile insights and mitigate potential dangers.
Tip 6: Contemplate Insurance coverage and Storage. Safe acceptable insurance coverage protection to guard towards potential loss, injury, or theft. Put money into skilled wine storage amenities that keep optimum temperature and humidity ranges. Correct storage is essential for preserving the worth and longevity of costly champagnes.
These suggestions emphasize the significance of rigorous analysis, skilled session, and meticulous consideration to element when navigating the marketplace for premium glowing wines. Diligence in these areas can contribute to knowledgeable decision-making and enhanced prospects for long-term worth retention.
The following part will conclude this exploration of high-value champagne, summarizing key findings and providing last views in the marketplace dynamics.
Conclusion
This exploration has illuminated the multifaceted nature of discerning the most costly champagne. The designation just isn’t solely decided by grape varietals or manufacturing prices however encompasses a posh interaction of rarity, model status, historic significance, manufacturing strategies, and verifiable provenance. Bottle measurement and documented storage situations additional contribute to the valuation course of, culminating within the costs noticed inside the luxurious market.
The pursuit of understanding “what’s the most costly champagne” necessitates an appreciation for the historic context, meticulous craftsmanship, and strategic advertising and marketing that underpin these distinctive choices. Whether or not seen as investments, symbols of celebration, or tangible expressions of luxurious, these champagnes characterize a confluence of things that extends past the inherent qualities of the beverage itself, solidifying their place as coveted and extremely valued commodities.
