Expert: Paul Wagner - 3/17/2009

Question
I HAVE A BOTTLE OF COURVOISIER COGNAC BACACARAT VOC CYRSTAL DECANTER ( LATE 1960,S I BELIEVE) IN PERFECT CONDITION, STILL IN ORIGINAL VELVET BOX. COULD YOU TELL ME WHAT THE VALUE OF IT IS AND WHERE COULD I SELL IT.
                                         THANK YOU
                                         JOHN

Answer
HI John

Unlike some fine wines, 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.  

But this bottle does have some collectible value.  I have seen retailers offer these for as much as $900.  That's more for the decanter than the product inside.  

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.


Hope that helps.

Paul Wagner