NEW AUCTION RECORD FOR AMERICAN WHISKEY AT SOTHEBY’S

Bottle of Old Rip Van Winkle ‘Van Winkle Selection’ Sells for $125,000

Historic Result for the Only Bottle in Existence

NEW YORK, – A one-of-a-kind bottle of Old Rip Van Winkle ‘Van Winkle Selection’ Kentucky Bourbon Festival Master Distiller’s Auction 2007 shattered records at Sotheby’s today, achieving $125,000 and becoming the most valuable single bottle of post-prohibition American whiskey ever sold at auction.* Offered with an estimate of $30,000 to $50,000, this ultra-rare bottle captivated collectors with its unique provenance, likely containing whiskey from the legendary Stitzel-Weller distillery, and its historical significance as one of the highest-proof Van Winkle releases ever produced. 

The bottle, which has not been seen in nearly 20 years, was originally created for the 2007 Kentucky Bourbon Festival and hand-bottled at full strength under the supervision of Julian Van Winkle. Its label, designed by Preston Van Winkle, and the glass, signed by Julian P. Van Winkle III and dated 9-15-07, add to its exceptional rarity and desirability. 

Zev Glesta, Sotheby’s Whiskey Specialist, commented: “This sale marks a defining moment in the history of American whiskey, underscoring the legendary status of Van Winkle bottlings and the continued strength of the fine and rare whiskey market. Bringing such a remarkable piece of American whiskey history to auction is a testament to the growing appreciation for the craft and heritage of American distilling.” 

The sale of this bottle further cements Sotheby’s leadership in the spirits market, building on past successes with rare American whiskey, historic Scotch collections, and one-of-a-kind whiskey auctions. With today’s result, Sotheby’s once again demonstrates the increasing global demand for American whiskey and the unparalleled prestige of the Van Winkle name in the world of fine spirits.

A selection of high-res images is available for download here. 

The Whisky & Whiskey online auction continues with significant offerings from The Macallan, Van Winkle and more. See the full catalogue here.

*The previous record was $107,715 for Van Winkle 18-year-old Bourbon for Binny’s, a price that includes buyer’s premium and tax.

About Sotheby’s

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 *Estimates do not include buyer’s premium. Prices achieved include the hammer price plus buyer’s premium and are net of any fees paid to the purchaser where the purchaser provided an irrevocable bid.

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