Last Updated on March 27, 2024 by Lydia Martin
Whiskey has been around for centuries, and people have always been fascinated by it. In fact, whiskey is so popular that there are auctions held for the most expensive bottles.
But what’s the highest auction price fetched for the most expensive whiskey? And what makes it so special? Keep reading to find out.
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ToggleWhat’s The Highest Auction Price For Whiskey?
The Emerald Isle Collection (by the Craft Irish Whiskey Co in partnership with Fabergé) sets the record for having the highest auction price of $2 million for whiskey. The seven wonders of Ireland inspired the collection, so only seven ultra-exclusive sets exist. This makes it a highly covetable bottle.
Luxury whiskey bottles priced above $1 million at auction houses are world record prices, and the expensive amount has something to do with age, rarity, singularity, and fine taste.
What Makes It Expensive?
The Emerald Isle Collection is the most expensive whiskey sold at auction for three reasons:
- Limited edition
- Oldest triple distilled single-malt Irish whiskey
- Large chunk value of gold included in the set
The set contains two bottles of rare 30-year-old Irish whiskey, not to mention the Fabergé gold additions.
9 Whiskeys Sold With High Auction Prices
1. Craft Irish Whiskey Co. – The Emerald Isle Collection
Price: $2 million
What Made It Expensive: The Emerald Isle set contains two rare 30-year-old whiskeys, considered the oldest triple distilled Irish single malt. The additions of jeweler Fabergé on the set greatly influenced the cost of the bottled whiskey.
2. The Macallan Fine and Rare 60 Year Old
Price: $1.9 million
What Made It Expensive: Macallan 1926 holds the world record of being the single whisky sold with the highest auction price [1]. Macallan Fine and Rare Series 60-year-old whisky may have set a new world record for being the highest auction price, breaking the $1.2 million previous record in 2019.
3. The Macallan Michael Dillon 1926 60-Year-Old
Price: $1.53 million
What Made It Expensive: The Macallan Michael Dillon 1926 is one of the remaining bottles from cask #263, the holy grail of Scotch whisky. The single malt scotch was commissioned to be hand-painted by Irish artist Michael Dillon to make it more expensive.
4. Hanyu Ichiro’s Full Card Series
Price: $1.52 million
What Made It Expensive: Hanyu Ichiro’s Full Card Series is a set of ultrarare Japanese whiskies and is the most expensive Japanese whisky set ever sold. It comprises 54 bottles, each representing a playing card in the deck.
5. The Dalmore Decades No.6 Collection
Price: $1.24 million
What Made It Expensive: Dalmore Decades No.6 is now a prized possession of a private collector at $1.24 million. It brings an amazing selection of six milestone releases, starting from 1951 to the new millennium, and selected by Richard Paterson, the Dalmore Whisky Master Distiller.
6. The Macallan Valerio Adami 1926 60 Year Old
Price: $1.07 million
What Made It Expensive: The Macallan Valerio Adami 1926 is the second release of 60-year-old Scotch whisky from the elusive cask from 1993. The label was designed by the Italian painter Valerio Adami, and there are only 12 bottles produced. It was rumored that the Japanese Earthquake destroyed one of the bottles of Macallan 1926 Valerio Adami.
7. The Macallan Peter Blake 1926 60-Year-Old
Price: $1.04 million
What Made It Expensive: The whisky from Macallan Distillery was laid untouched for six decades in sherry casks and divided into 40 bottles.
There are 12 bottles of 60-year-old whisky on its first release, and to make the most expensive bottles of whisky, the Macallan teamed up with Sir Peter Blake, famous for his Beatles’ album cover.
8. The Macallan Lalique Six Pillars Collection
Price: $993,000
What Made It Expensive: Lalique Six Pillars from Macallan Distillery is a set of six crystal decanters from the jeweler and glassmaker Lalique to store single malts matured 50 to 65. The limited-edition decanters are highly prized, but the ebony cabinet that holds the set made its winning bid reach $993,000.
9. The Macallan Red Collection
Price: $975,756
What Made It Expensive: The Macallan Red comprises six whiskies, two of which are the oldest releases (73 and 78 years old). Collectors worldwide compete to own this rare bottle of whisky from Scotland.
The Most Expensive Cask Sold At An Auction
The Macallan Cask – Distilled In 1988
This particular Macallan cask was accidentally forgotten in the distillery for 33 years before it was auctioned for $1,295,500. It was sold at about $6,275 by the previous owner and has been held in bond by The Macallan for three decades before being considered a holy grail.
The Macallan Cask set the new world record as the most expensive cask sold at the auction by an unnamed American buyer through an online auction site.
Why People Thought “The Intrepid” Could Break The Record
The Intrepid, a 311-liter bottle of Macallan Scotch whisky, was estimated to be sold for around $1.6 million. Created by Fah Mai Holdings Group Inc and Rosewin Holdings PLC, many believed it could be a record-breaker because of its size – the bottle was 5 ft and 11 inches.
In 2021, it was certified as the world’s largest bottle of Scotch whisky by Guinness World Records [2]. In March, it sold for about $1.4 million during a live auction by Lyon & Turnbull. The bid was placed anonymously.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the most expensive whiskey ever sold?
The most expensive whiskey ever sold is often cited as the “Macallan 1926 Fine & Rare,” which fetched a record-breaking price of $1.9 million at auction. This exceptionally rare bottle of Scotch whisky was distilled in 1926 at The Macallan distillery in Scotland and was aged for 60 years before being bottled in 1986.
What makes this particular bottle so valuable is its rarity, with only 40 bottles produced from a single cask. The Macallan 1926 Fine & Rare is highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts for its extraordinary quality and historical significance, leading to its staggering price tag at auction.
What was the most expensive alcohol sold at auction?
The most expensive alcohol ever sold at auction is often associated with rare bottles of whisky or wine, with prices reaching astronomical figures in the world of collectible spirits.
One notable example is the sale of a bottle of “The Macallan 1926 Fine & Rare,” which fetched a record-breaking price of $1.9 million at auction.
This exceptionally rare Scotch whisky is revered for its unparalleled quality and scarcity, making it a highly coveted item among collectors worldwide.
While rare whiskies frequently command top prices at auction, other spirits such as vintage wines and cognacs have also achieved significant sums. Ultimately, the most expensive alcohol sold at auction can vary depending on factors such as rarity, provenance, and collector demand.
Which whisky has the world’s largest price?
The whisky that holds the title for the world’s largest price is often the “Macallan 1926 Fine & Rare.” This exceptionally rare bottle of Scotch whisky fetched a staggering $1.9 million at auction, setting a new record for the highest price ever paid for a single bottle of whisky.
Distilled in 1926 at The Macallan distillery in Scotland and aged for 60 years before being bottled in 1986, this whisky is renowned for its extraordinary quality, scarcity, and historical significance.
The Macallan 1926 Fine & Rare is highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts alike, with only 40 bottles produced from a single cask. Its exquisite craftsmanship, combined with its limited availability, has contributed to its status as one of the most coveted and valuable whiskies in the world.
While there are other rare and expensive whiskies on the market, the Macallan 1926 Fine & Rare holds the distinction of commanding the highest price ever paid for a single bottle of whisky at auction.
What is the $2.1 million bottle of whiskey?
The $2.1 million bottle of whiskey is famously known as “The Macallan Fine & Rare Collection 1926.” This extraordinary bottle of Scotch whisky holds a legendary status in the world of spirits and auctions. It is part of “The Macallan Fine & Rare Collection,” a series of highly sought-after whiskies renowned for their rarity, quality, and historical significance. The 1926 vintage is particularly esteemed due to its exceptional age and limited availability.
Crafted by The Macallan, one of Scotland’s most prestigious distilleries, the 1926 Fine & Rare Collection whiskey represents the pinnacle of whisky craftsmanship. Distilled in 1926 and aged for an impressive 60 years in oak barrels, this whisky embodies the essence of time-honored tradition and meticulous aging. Bottled in 1986, only 40 bottles were produced from a single cask, adding to its exclusivity and allure.
The $2.1 million price tag achieved by “The Macallan Fine & Rare Collection 1926” at auction is a testament to its status as a highly coveted collector’s item. Its record-breaking sale in October 2019 at Sotheby’s marked a milestone in the world of whiskey auctions, capturing the attention of enthusiasts, investors, and collectors worldwide. The rarity, provenance, and exceptional quality of this whiskey make it a prized possession for those fortunate enough to acquire it.
Can you drink 100-year-old whiskey?
While it is technically possible to consume 100-year-old whiskey, there are several factors to consider before doing so. Whiskey, like other spirits, does not continue to age once it is bottled, as the aging process ceases once it is removed from the barrel. Therefore, the whiskey retains the characteristics it had at the time of bottling, without further maturation.
However, extremely old whiskies may undergo changes in flavor and aroma over time, and the condition of the bottle, cork, and seal can affect the whiskey’s quality and safety. While some collectors may choose to preserve 100-year-old whiskies as prized possessions or display pieces, others may choose to open and taste them for the experience and historical significance.
Ultimately, the decision to drink 100-year-old whiskey depends on personal preference, risk tolerance, and the condition of the whiskey. While it may offer a glimpse into the past and provide a unique tasting experience, it is essential to approach such aged spirits with caution and respect.
What whiskey sold for millions?
Several whiskies have achieved multimillion-dollar prices at auctions, driven by their rarity, age, and desirability among collectors. Among the most notable examples is “The Macallan Fine & Rare Collection 1926,” which sold for an astounding $2.1 million at auction, setting a new world record for the highest price ever paid for a bottle of whiskey.
This extraordinary sale underscored the enduring appeal and investment potential of rare and collectible whiskies.
Other whiskies that have commanded millions of dollars at auction include “The Macallan M Decanter 6-Liter Lalique ‘The Legacy Collection,'” which sold for $1.5 million, and “The Macallan ‘M’ Decanter by Lalique,” fetching $628,205. These remarkable sales reflect the growing interest and demand for exceptional whiskies among enthusiasts, investors, and collectors worldwide.
With their unparalleled quality, scarcity, and historical significance, these whiskies represent more than just spirits; they are prized treasures that embody the artistry and craftsmanship of the distiller’s craft.
What’s the world’s most expensive liquor?
The world’s most expensive liquor is often associated with rare and collectible bottles of whisky, cognac, or other spirits that command astronomical prices at auctions or specialty markets.
One notable example is the “Henri IV Dudognon Heritage Cognac Grande Champagne,” which is often cited as the most expensive liquor in the world. This exquisite cognac is housed in a stunning 24-karat gold and sterling platinum decanter adorned with over 6,500 diamonds, making it a symbol of opulence and luxury.
Priced at around $2 million, this limited edition cognac is renowned for its exceptional quality, craftsmanship, and unparalleled extravagance, earning it the title of the world’s most expensive liquor.
What was the most expensive auction ever?
The most expensive auction ever recorded is often associated with art masterpieces, rare collectibles, or high-value assets that attract significant attention and bidding interest from collectors and investors worldwide.
One notable example is the sale of Leonardo da Vinci’s “Salvator Mundi” painting, which fetched a staggering $450.3 million at auction in November 2017.
This historic sale, facilitated by Christie’s auction house in New York, set a new world record for the highest price ever paid for a work of art at auction, cementing “Salvator Mundi” as one of the most coveted and valuable paintings in history.
What is the most luxurious alcohol in the world?
The most luxurious alcohol in the world encompasses a wide range of premium and exclusive spirits that embody sophistication, refinement, and exceptional craftsmanship. While there are many contenders for this title, one standout example is the “Henri IV Dudognon Heritage Cognac Grande Champagne.”
Encased in an exquisite decanter crafted from 24-karat gold and sterling platinum, adorned with over 6,500 diamonds, and featuring a blend of rare cognac aged for centuries, this limited edition cognac epitomizes luxury and extravagance.
With a price tag of around $2 million, the Henri IV Dudognon Heritage Cognac Grande Champagne is revered as one of the most luxurious and sought-after alcoholic beverages in the world, appealing to discerning connoisseurs and collectors with a taste for the finer things in life.
Which is the oldest whisky in the world?
The title of the oldest whisky in the world is a subject of debate and can vary depending on different criteria, including aging duration and production methods. One contender for this title is the “Old Vatted Glenlivet 1862,” which is believed to be one of the oldest whiskies still in existence.
This rare and historic whisky was bottled in the 20th century, making it over a century old. Its remarkable age, combined with its scarcity and historical significance, contributes to its status as one of the oldest whiskies in the world.
However, there may be other contenders for this title, as old and rare whiskies continue to be discovered and valued by collectors and enthusiasts worldwide.
What is the #1 selling Scotch?
The title of the #1 selling Scotch whisky can vary depending on factors such as geographical location, market trends, and sales data. However, one of the most consistently popular and widely recognized Scotch whiskies is Johnnie Walker.
As a global brand with a diverse range of expressions, including Johnnie Walker Red Label, Black Label, and Blue Label, among others, Johnnie Walker has achieved widespread popularity and sales success around the world.
Its iconic branding, consistent quality, and broad appeal make it a top choice among whisky drinkers of all levels, contributing to its status as one of the best-selling Scotch whiskies globally.
So, What’s Highest Auction Price for the Most Expensive Whiskey?
The Emerald Isle Collection may technically hold the title of the most expensive whiskey ever sold. Still, it cannot quite claim its title because a huge value is attributed to the exquisitely-crafted gold that is part of the set. The set included a 22k gold timepiece with sapphire crystals and a Fabergé Celtic egg.
Emerald Isle may be the most expensive whiskey bottle, but other bottles from The Macallan product lineup also dominate the list.
References:
- Macallan Whisky Cask Could Break Auction Records After Owner Forgot It At The Distillery 30 Years Ago
- Largest Bottle of Scotch Whisky