Expert: Paul Wagner - 1/21/2008

Question
I have a bottle of grand marnier liqueur that is at least 60 years old. It's unopened and it has a number on it over the seal 1800950094. I don't know its value or if its collectible.

Answer
HI Patty

Distilled spirits like this do not change much in the bottle, for better or for worse, because the alcohol levels are so high.  The good news is that this should be perfectly good to drink.  The bad news is that it doesn't taste much different from a current bottling from the same company.  As a result, connoisseurs wouldn't pay much more for this bottle.  I would estimate the value of this bottle at around $50-75 at a wine and spirits auction.  

Please note that it is illegal for private individuals to sell alcoholic beverages in the USA, so you would have to work through a retailer or auction house, who would take their commission.

You might find more interest among bottle collectors.  Go to antiquebottles.com and see if anyone there has more interest...they are good people with a lot of good information.

If it were mine, I would pick a special occasion and drink it with friends and family.

Sorry I can't give you more exciting news.   Hope you have great 2008.

Paul Wagner