Letters: How can I sell my Laphroaig 40?

Bill:

Have a bottle of 40 years old Laphroaig for sale. Any suggestions?

-- Chas Lux, Eau Claire WI

Chas:

There may be 40-year-old bottles of various ages of Laphroaig Scotch whisky, but the only 40-year-old Laphroaig Scotch put in bottles is part of a special release from the iconic Islay, Scotland, distiller. Just under 2,400 bottles were released from what Laphroaig says is a "never to be repeated production run" that was aged in European oak casks.

It is the oldest Laphroaig ever produced, and went directly from cask to bottle at a strength of 42.4% alcohl by volume (84.8 proof). The retail price set by the company was £1,000, the equivalent of $1,559.49 at today's currency exchange rate.

How much you could sell it for depends on two things:

(1.) Market demand, which will go up slowly from the original retail price if the bottle remains unopened and protected from extremes of temperature.

(2.) Whether you are licensed to sell spirits. That is quite important if you plan to advertise the availability of the whisky. Otherwise, a private transaction may be permissible. Check with your state's liquor control board for specifics.

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