One Of The World’s Most Valuable Whiskey Collections Goes Under the Hammer

August 9, 2023

One of the most valuable whisky collections in the world has recently been put up for auction, fetching more than $1.4 million.

Sotheby’s in New York held the live auction on May 11, featuring The Legacy Collection, a treasure trove of 142 exclusive and rare distilled whiskies. 

Among the prized whiskies in the collection are plenty of notable Japanese whiskies and bourbons. However, the real star of the show is The Macallan Fine and Rare series. The series was introduced by the renowned scotch brand in 2002, and over the years, they have released 59 separate vintages. One of the oldest and most prestigious bottles from this collection is a 1926 vintage, which set a world record three years ago when it was sold for £1.5 million in London.

Although the 1926 vintage was not part of the auction, whisky enthusiasts could choose from 13 other exceptional vintages from The Macallan Fine and Rare collection. Sotheby’s Head of Whisky & Spirits, Jonny Fowle, stated that the auction showcased one of the most complete collections of Macallan Fine & Rare ever seen, making it a significant event for whisky collectors in the US.

One particular highlight of The Legacy Collection is a 1957 vintage, originally bottled in 1972 when it was 15 years old. Only 15 bottles were filled for its Fine & Rare release, making it one of the rarest and most sought-after whiskies in the entire series, second only to the famous 1926 vintage.

In addition to The Macallan whiskies, the Legacy Collection also boasts a selection of extra-old scotch whiskies that would excite any single malt aficionado. This includes a half-century-old release from The Balvenie, as well as eight bottles of The Dalmore 25-Year-Old and a 38-year-old Brora.

The identity of the single collector behind this exceptional whisky treasure remains a mystery, as nothing has been disclosed about them. Perhaps it is for the best, as revealing their identity could lead to a flurry of strangers seeking to make friends due to their enviable whisky collection.

What we do know however, is that this passionate collector spent decades amassing this remarkable assortment of whiskies, clearly showing their love for both collecting and consuming these precious liquids.

The Legacy Collection auction at Sotheby’s was a momentous event for whisky enthusiasts worldwide. The assortment of exclusive whiskies, particularly The Macallan Fine and Rare series, made it a highly anticipated and valuable collection. With a total value of more than $1.4 million, this auction marked a milestone in the world of whisky collecting.

Main Image: The Legacy Collection, Courtesy of Sotheby’s 

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