Expert: Paul Wagner - 8/26/2010

Question
I have a 4/5 quart crystal bottle of unopened Ballantine's 30-year old scotch.  The box is in great shape, and I can tell it is old but there is no date on the box or bottle.  How do I find out how much it is worth and whether it is a collector's item? I understand that spirits generally do not appreciate the way some fine wines do, but surely the unopened crystal bottle and box are worth more...

Answer
Hi Sarah

You are correct about the contents of this bottle---but I am an expert in beverages, not a bottle collector.  I would take your question to the very nice folks at antiquebottles.com.  They are very helpful, and specialize in collectible bottles and packaging.  You might even find a similar bottle there, with an evaluation.

Hope that helps.

Paul Wagner