Independent cellar valuation: why it matters
An up-to-date valuation ensures your policy reflects the real market value of your wine collection. It protects you from the outset and helps claims move faster if something goes wrong. A current valuation also serves as proof of ownership and condition, which makes resolving loss, theft or damage more straightforward.
We can signpost respected specialists and make document uploads simple. For the best results, use recognised wine merchants, auction houses or appraisers whose assessments are accepted within the trade.
Why generic home cover falls short for wine
Most standard home policies cap valuables at relatively low limits. That can leave a cellar underinsured if bottles or cases are lost, stolen or damaged. Some policies exclude accidental loss unless each item is separately listed, apply tight single-item limits, or restrict cover while goods are in transit or off-site.
rivr takes a different approach. Your wine collection sits within contents insurance designed to protect individual bottles, cases and whole cellars. Fewer carve-outs. Higher limits. Cover that works at home and abroad.
Wine move, so do risks
Collections rotate between home storage, professional facilities and tastings, and purchases are frequently shipped. That movement brings everyday risk. With rivr, cover adapts to the way you collect: accidental damage, loss and theft on a worldwide basis, plus easy valuation and schedule updates as the market shifts.
Cover that scales as your cellar evolves
Policies should grow with your collection. Newly acquired bottles or cases are automatically covered for a set period, giving you time to arrange valuations and adjust sums insured. Standout items can be listed for agreed value in line with your policy terms.
Straightforward claims, collector-first support
If you need to claim, choose what works for you — a cash settlement or a like-for-like replacement through trusted partners. Settlements are based on the insured values on your schedule.
Practical care tips for your cellar
- Keep bottles in a cool, stable environment away from direct light and vibration.
- Store cork-sealed wines on their side; avoid rapid temperature swings and low humidity.
- Preserve provenance: retain original cases, labels and purchase documentation.
- Use specialist packaging and tracked services for any shipments; avoid checking bottles into hold luggage.
- Maintain a simple inventory with receipts, storage statements and valuations for smooth updates and claims.
