Expert: Paul Wagner - 8/22/2008

Question
I have bottles of liquor between 60-90 years old, which are as follows: Martell Cognac, Du Bas Armagnac, Old Barony Scotch, and a French  cherry Liqueur. I have been told that these may fetch a good price at auction, but how can the value be appraised, who can I contact to place them in an auction, and how do I prevent getting swindled? I appreciate your help.

Answer
Hi Mike

Distilled spirits like this have such high alcohol levels that they don't change much over time.  That means that your bottles should be just fine to drink, but it also means that they haven't improved with age the way some fine wines do.  The result is that you won't be able to sell these for much more than a current bottling.  It's really good stuff, but I don't think any of them would sell for more than about $75---and only if you can really show that it hasn't been damaged or diluted in any way.  

It is illegal for private individuals to sell alcoholic beverages in the USA, so you have to work through an auction house or wine shop. They will, in turn, ask for a commission. Most auction houses are pretty reputable about this kind of thing...

You might check with the folks at antiquebottles.com--they know more about the actual bottles and boxes than I do, and ones this old might be worth more than the liquid inside.  

Sorry I can't give you more exciting news.

Paul Wagner