The problem that most high-balance Golds (and Silvers) have is actually finding availability in premium cabins without booking 11 months ahead, especially if you have a few children in tow. We see the same Avios seats as everyone else, and there aren't very many of those.

This is one of many reasons why I'm consolidating my travel around BA and OW and avoiding *A unless it makes absolutely no sense. With the ensuing GGL status you get revenue seats released for Avios redemption for account holder plus four, twice a year. That makes only one true Avios seat I need to worry about!