Expert: Paul Wagner - 3/24/2009

Question
I am interested in collecting spirits and wines, but am reading a lot that it may not be worth wild as many don't gain value.

Currently I have a few bottles of Hennessy Pure White (not made any more), Limited Edition 44th President Hennessey (only 180k made), several bottles of wine from 1969, Johnny Walker Blue & black labels from 99 and a few more.

My question is do they gain in value? and if so, how do I find out how much they are worth at this point and if I go forward in the future with it.

Thanks in advance

Answer
HI Jamel

Good question!  Simply put, distilled spirits are so high in alcohol that they don't change much over time.  And that means that they don't increase in value much, either.  Anything over about 60 proof is not going to appreciate in value...so stop collecting those for investment!

There are some fine wines that do appreciate over time, but unfortunately they are complicated.  The very best ones seem to get more expensive each year---but the newer vintages seem to be more valuable than the older ones.  With that pricing pattern, it's hard to justify buying them to age and then resell.  

My advice is to only buy those wines that you really love.  That way, if the investment doesn't pan out, you can always drink your assets!

Paul Wagner