Expert: Paul Wagner - 11/22/2008

Question
I recently came into a bottle of 1969 Courvoisier VSOP Fine Champagne Cognac. It still has the red and white tax seal across the top, unbroken, with the bottling or sale date and a serial number on it. It is 80 proof and 4/5 of a pint in measurement. ANy idea what its worth could be? ANY help would be of great appreciation. I have not been able to find ANYTHING about it online!

Answer
Hi Steve

Distilled spirits like this don't change much with time--the alcohol levels are too high.  So the good news is that this is perfectly good  to drink.  The bad news is that it hasn't really developed in the bottle the wine some fine wines do.  The value today won't be much different from a current release.  I would estimate something like $50-75 for this bottle, if you can find the right buyer.

But bear in mind that it's illegal for private individuals to sell alcoholic beverages in the USA.  You'll need to work through  an auction house or local retailer.  And they will charge a serious commission.  

If it were mine, I would drink it on a special occasion with friends...or trade it to a local fine wine retailer for something I would enjoy more.

Sorry I can't give you more exciting news.

Paul Wagner