Of Distillery Show Bottles & Tast-able Collections

Those of who listen to Whiskycast, or follow single malt news appreciate the difference. For every Mr. Disposable Income, there are a thousand bars and distilleries ready to buy back a show piece.

For those who actually drink the show pieces, the results may prove just as good as the occasional brass ring. That is, the arguably affordable bottle under $100, but definitely $200 on an average day.


I have heard of the Laphroaig collections, among others, where a collector has a passion. This dedication should eventually take refuge in a distillery or museum, when the basement becomes full and uninhabitable. Perhaps, the bequest is appreciated when the last will and testament is read.

Whether in Denmark or Italy, Texas or Texarkana, those who horde have a goal. Sometimes, it is more for accomplishment or show, then the real desire to make a buck. I'd rather drink it with good acquaintances or friends who appreciate it.

Recent auctions of the recent Bowmore Whites and Blacks suggest that time has yet to reveal an appraisal even at face value. The bottles may have to sit on the top shelves of those special pubs with laser lights flashing for years. There may or may not be that one moment when the bells go off, the buttons get pressed, and the debit card goes snap!


There is also the possibility that the bottles will sit until the dust builds, the lights go out, and no one knows exactly what is in that cubby hole except for that crumugeon just trying to keep his or her cool until the bottle sells for $200 to someone who happens to just know better or finds out that they have just purchased a treasure later appraised on the antique roadshow.


Will Richard Patterson be the appraiser of the 50 year old Dalmore sold for a song to Jedidiah Jones of Timberforks, Tennessee? Call me Jed, not the Donald. I hope for the unknown Kate Hopkins types to get those tastes; the John Hansell's have enough of them. Those memories are not forgotten!


Thanks Jamie!


The Bowmore portion has increased to two 17 year olds, numerous single cask bottles, the Dusk, and a Provenance for at least six to ten in the collection. A little kindness is appreciated.

Now, if I can only get free tickets to The Whisky Show!