Rory McIlroy made history last month by completing the career Grand Slam with his Masters win, eleven years after his last major victory. His close friend Shane Lowry was there to witness the moment, sharing a big hug with McIlroy at Augusta.
The celebrations quickly kicked off, and with Lowry nearby, the party was sure to be memorable.
That evening, Lowry met with Augusta National’s sommelier to explore the wine cellar beneath the clubhouse. The cellar holds some of the world’s finest wines, including the prized 1990 Château Lafite Rothschild. This legendary Bordeaux is known for its rich blackcurrant flavors and complex aromas, according to auction house Christie’s.
Jack Nicklaus once received cases of 1947 and 1952 Château Lafite but spoiled them by storing the wine incorrectly, calling it an “expensive lesson” after the wine turned to vinegar.
Lowry asked if he could buy a case or two of the vintage wine. The sommelier initially refused, explaining that Augusta National does not allow wine to be taken off the premises. However, Lowry’s persistence paid off, and the club made an exception, allowing him to purchase one case of the 1990 Château Lafite Rothschild.
McIlroy revealed, “That’s what we had that night to celebrate. It was a very nice gift. He bought it and brought it to my rental house, and we had a few glasses.”
A bottle of this vintage wine costs between \$1,000 and \$4,000 online, if it can be found at all. Paul Einbund, a sommelier and winemaker, explained that these wines don’t have exclusive importers, making their prices vary widely. They are so rare and sought after that they can refuse exclusives.
But saying no to Lowry was a different matter entirely.
