One of the most common questions new bidders ask is how to participate in a wine auction. The good news is that wine auctions are more accessible than ever, with multiple bidding options designed to fit different schedules, preferences, and comfort levels. Whether you prefer to bid independently online or enjoy a more personal, guided experience, there is a method that makes participation straightforward and approachable.
At Zachys, bidders can choose from several ways to engage, each offering a distinct experience while providing equal access to the wines being offered.
Online bidding is one of the most popular and flexible ways to participate in a wine auction. Bidders can place bids directly through our website during live or streamed auctions while following the action in real time from anywhere in the world. This option allows participants to track multiple lots, respond quickly as bidding progresses, and stay fully engaged without needing to be physically present.
For many collectors, online bidding strikes the ideal balance between convenience and excitement, offering full visibility into the auction while maintaining complete control over when and how to bid.
Absentee bidding is ideal for those who know what they want but cannot attend the auction. This method allows you to place a maximum bid in advance, authorizing the auctioneer to bid on your behalf only as needed. Importantly, absentee bids are executed competitively, meaning you may secure a lot for less than your maximum if bidding does not reach that level.
This approach is particularly useful for collectors with busy schedules or those bidding across time zones, offering a disciplined and stress-free way to participate.
Phone bidding provides a more hands-on and personalized option. With this method, a Zachys representative calls you when your selected lot is about to be offered and relays bids in real time as the auction unfolds. This direct connection allows bidders to ask questions, adjust strategy on the fly, and feel fully involved in the moment.
For first-time bidders or collectors pursuing important lots, phone bidding offers reassurance and clarity while preserving the energy of live bidding.
Extended bidding is a feature used in our online-only auctions to keep the process fair and competitive. Rather than ending abruptly, lots are designed to remain open if bidding activity continues near the close.
If a bid is placed within the final five minutes of a lot’s scheduled closing time, an additional five minutes is added to the clock. This gives other bidders the opportunity to respond, ensuring that no one loses a lot simply because they were outbid at the last second.
This process can repeat multiple times. Each new bid placed during the final five-minute window extends the closing time again, allowing bidding to continue until there is a clear winner.
When you place a max bid, you are setting the highest amount you are willing to pay for a lot. If another bidder enters a competing bid that is lower than your maximum, the system will automatically bid for you at the next available increment.
This works much like placing a regular bid, with the added convenience that you do not need to be present for each advance. If another bidder places a higher max bid, you will receive an outbid notification, just as you would with a standard bid.
Max bids are only executed in response to other bidders, meaning there is always a chance you may win a lot for less than your stated maximum.
For those seeking the full experience, in-person bidding is unmatched. Live auctions often take place in restaurants or event settings and are as much a social gathering as an auction. Guests enjoy shared bottles, food, conversation, and a lively atmosphere where bidding feels celebratory rather than intimidating.
In-person auctions offer a unique opportunity to connect with fellow collectors, specialists, and the broader wine community, making the experience memorable whether you raise your paddle or not.
No matter how you choose to bid, the flexibility of wine auctions makes participation easy and welcoming. Whether you are bidding online from home, placing an absentee bid in advance, speaking with a specialist by phone, or attending a live auction in person, each method provides access to the same exceptional wines.
For first-time bidders and seasoned collectors alike, understanding these options helps remove uncertainty and allows you to focus on what matters most: discovering great wines and enjoying the auction experience.
Whether you prefer to bid online, by phone, or in person, getting started is easy. Explore upcoming auctions and create an account so you’re ready to participate when the auction begins.