Expert: Paul Wagner - 11/16/2007

Question
I have a bottle of Lagavulin, 1981 Distillers Edition, which I brought back from Scotland some years ago.  I'm not a peat whisky fan, I may be interested in selling it. Any idea what this may be worth and to whom?

Answer
Hi Marc

Distilled spirits have such a high alcohol level that they don't change much, for better or for worse, once they are bottled.  Because of that, this bottle should be fine to drink, but won't have appreciated much in value.  I would estimate this at about $50-70.

But a bottle collector might pay a lot more--I know beverages, but I don't know collectible bottles. Check out antiquebottles.com.  They have a lot of great info there, and can probably give you a better idea.

It is illegal for private individuals to sell alcoholic beverages in the USA, so you will need to go through an auction house or a local wine retailer.  Or you can sell it through e-bay, with a not that it is not for consumption...!

Sorry I can't be the bearer of more exciting news.

Paul Wagner