Prices for the world’s top wines rose by 4.6 per cent in August – the biggest monthly increase for more than two years, according to the Liv-ex 100 Fine Wine Index – which tracks the price of 100 of the most sought-after fine wines.

Wine is arguably a diversifier of risk, even though the sector has not been immune to the broader economic slowdown. Investor interest in the sector continues and as previously reported, Richard Dawes Fine Wine, a UK-based wholesale wine trader, has teamed up with Liv-ex, to offer private clients the opportunity to trade the Liv-ex 100.

The index hit a level of 225 at the end of last month, its highest level since the onset of the credit crisis. The index has increased by more than 10 per cent in the year to date.

This rise in prices is being led by Lafite Rothschild – a “first growth” Bordeaux wine – that has benefited from a strong following in Asian markets, particularly Hong Kong and China, Liv-ex said.

“August is usually a quiet time in the fine wine trade, so this rise in prices, combined with healthy trading on the Liv-ex Fine Wine Exchange, are encouraging signs for the market,” said James Miles, a director of the exchange.