Sniffing Out A Fake

Mitch Frank
Issue: December 15, 2009

Maureen Downey never calls a bottle of wine fake. "Only a producer can do that," says the former fine and rare wine specialist for auction houses, who formed Chai Consulting in 2006 to help clients build (counterfeit-free) collections. "All I can say is, 'This bottle is inconsistent with known authentic examples.' " She's looking for problems, and if she finds them, she has to tell her client that what they thought was a rare, expensive piece of art is probably only a conversation piece.

For the full article, check out the new issue of Wine Spectator, on newsstands November 24, 2009.

To continue reading this page, become a WineSpectator.com member today!

Do you have a Wine Spectator magazine subscription? Save 50% on your Online Membership right now!


Log In If You're Already a WineSpectator.com Member

Please login using your email address and password for WineSpectator.com




Forgot Password?

By clicking "Log in" you agree to the Terms and Conditions of Wine Spectator Online

MEMBER LOGIN

= members only

Keep me logged in      Forgot Password?

Free Email Newsletters

Sips & Tips | Wine & Healthy Living
Video Theater | Collecting & Auctions

» View samples
» Or sign up now!
» Manage my newsletter preferences

Classifieds

The marketplace for all your wine needs, including:

Wine Storage | Wine Clubs
Dining & Travel | Wine Auctions
Wine Shops | Wine Accessories