Expert: Paul Wagner - 11/27/2008

Question
I have a bottle of Benedictine. Some of the verbage on the bottle is -- Benedictine Liqueur made and bottled by Benedictine S.A. Fecamp ( France ) - Liquor Antiquorum Monachorum Benedictne ABBATIAE FISCANENSIS - sole agents for the United States of America JULIUS WILE SONS AND CO. INC NEW YORK.  The seal has not been broken.  Could you give me a value? THNAKS IN ADVANCE

Answer
Hi Bob

Distilled spirits like this don't change much with age--the alcohol level is so high that it preserves the liquor almost perfectly.  With that in mind, this should be perfectly good to drink---but it also hasn't increased in value.  I'd put the range at $50-75, depending on who is bidding that day.

Bear in mind that it is illegal for private individuals to sell alcoholic beverages in the US--so you'll have to work with a retailer or an auction house, and pay them a commission.

If it were mine, I would open it up during the holidays, and enjoy it with family and friends....or trade it to someone who is a fan.

Sorry I can't give you more exciting news.

Paul Wagner