In a groundbreaking auction at Sotheby’s in London, a bottle of Scotch whisky has shattered records by selling for an astounding £2.2 million ($4.2 million), making it the most expensive wine or spirits bottle ever sold. The exceptional bottle, known as The Macallan Adami 1926, was fiercely contested by potential buyers both in the auction room and on the phone. With only 40 bottles ever produced in 1986 after an aging process of 60 years in sherry casks, this remarkable whisky stands as a testament to the craftsmanship and rarity that whisky enthusiasts crave.
While the previous auction record for a bottle of wine or spirits was set at around £1.5 million in 2019 with a previous bottling from the same cask, this sale has surpassed all expectations. Sotheby’s global head of spirits, Jonny Fowle, conveyed the significance of this remarkable achievement, describing it as “nothing short of momentous for the whisky industry as a whole.” The Macallan 1926 is a highly coveted and sought-after whisky among collectors and connoisseurs alike.
What sets this particular bottle apart is not only its exclusivity but also its historical value. The labels of twelve bottles, including the one sold this weekend, were designed by the acclaimed Italian painter Valerio Adami. Additionally, this bottle is unique as it underwent meticulous reconditioning by the Macallan distillery before being put up for auction. From replacing the cork to applying new glue to the corners of the labels, every detail was carefully attended to in order to ensure its pristine condition.
As for the taste, Macallan’s master whisky maker, Kirsteen Campbell, provided an enticing description. She noted that the whisky offers a medley of notes, ranging from “rich dark fruits, black cherry compote alongside sticky dates” to “intense sweet antique oak.” With undertones of dark chocolate, treacle, and ginger, this whisky promises a complex and indulgent experience for its fortunate owner.
The staggering final price of £2,187,500 includes the buyer’s premium, which is added on top of the sale price. This figure far surpassed the initial estimate of £750,000 to £1.2 million, highlighting the incredible demand and fervor surrounding this exceptional bottle of whisky. The sale of The Macallan Adami 1926 signifies a momentous milestone in the whisky industry, setting new standards and redefining the boundaries of luxury spirits.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is The Macallan Adami 1926?
The Macallan Adami 1926 is an exceptionally rare and highly sought-after bottle of Scotch whisky. It is renowned for its exclusivity and historical significance, with only 40 bottles ever produced in 1986.
2. What records did the sale of this bottle break?
The sale of The Macallan Adami 1926 set a new record for the highest price ever paid for a bottle of wine or spirits. It surpassed the previous record of approximately £1.5 million set in 2019.
3. Who designed the labels for The Macallan Adami 1926?
The labels for twelve bottles of The Macallan 1926, including the one sold at the recent auction, were designed by the acclaimed Italian painter Valerio Adami.
4. How does this whisky taste?
According to Macallan’s master whisky maker, Kirsteen Campbell, The Macallan Adami 1926 boasts a range of flavors such as rich dark fruits, black cherry compote, sticky dates, and intense sweet antique oak. Additional notes of dark chocolate, treacle, and ginger enhance its complexity.