Expert: Paul Wagner - 4/13/2010

Question
I have a bottle of Bellows & Company all twelve years old established in 1830 New York City, Blended Scotch Whiskey, blended by Portal Dingwall V. Norris, London, Eng. 86 proof Partners Choice.  It has two Government stamps licensing authority, .49 cents, number 15710. State of Colorado, this bottle was found at the famous Broadmoor Hotel in Colorado Springs, Co. Can you give me an idea of the value .  Thank you in advance

Answer
Hi  Sharon

As whiskey, this bottle is only worth about as much as a current bottling.  Distilled spirits like this have such high alcohol that they don't change much over time.  The good news is that this one is fine to drink.  The bad news is that it hasn't appreciated in value the way some fine wines do.  

As an historical artifact, the glass bottle may have more value than the whskey.  I'd contact the people at antiquebottles.com.  They are very helpful, and really know which bottles are collectibles.

Sorry that I can't give you more exciting news

Paul Wagner