Condition is Crucial

There is no question that the condition of a bottle is crucial when buying to collect or invest. Naturally if the condition is not perfect then it will discourage those bidding, which is well illustrated with lots 139 and 163 in Friday’s Rare & Fine Whisky sale.

Both are the much sought after Caol Ila Manager’s Dram aged 15 years. This heavily sherried peated Islay malt is the most desired of the Manager’s Dram range, which in relatively good condition, with the fill level very low in the shoulder, and slight staining to the label, lot 139 is expected to sell for £3,000-£4,000. 

Compare this to lot 163, where there has been significant evaporation, with the fill level sitting just below the bottom of the shoulder, and again slight staining to the label. While this will be of little interest to investors, it will be a good opportunity for whisky drinkers to try this sensational liquid at a reduced price, with an auction estimate of £1,000-£2,000. 

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Graeme Maxwell

McTear’s sells more whisky than any other traditional auction house in the dedicated whisky auctions that take place monthly, run concurrently live online on a platform that attracts six million visitors annually from over 120 countries worldwide.