In 17th and 18th century England nobody purchased more fine wine than Sir Robert Walpole (1676–1745), de facto first Prime Minister of Great Britain, who held office for 20 years. He is portrayed here in 1715 by by Sir Godfrey Kneller (© National Portrait Gallery, London).
In 1733, Walpole spent £1,150 on wine, which is roughly equivalent to £135,000 today.
Claret accounted for 35% of the volume and 44% of the value. Walpole was buying the best.
He purchased seven hogsheads of Margaux; three of Lafite; one of Haut-Brion; and 36 bottles of unnamed “New French Claret”. He also bought burgundy and champagne.
His “house wines” were “white Lisbon” (Bucelas, perhaps? 31%) and “red Port” (15%), purchased in vast quantities for consumption at his “public tables”, where he hosted dozens and sometimes hundreds of guests.
Records show that in 1732-1733 Walpole purchased approximately 5,184 bottles of white Lisbon at 1s.8d per bottle (about £10 today) and 2,520 bottles of red Port at 2s. (about £12).
When he wanted to impress he served Haut–Brion, which was poured only at Houghton Hall.