A number of people chase whiskeys produced by Macallan. Currently eight of the 10 most expensive of the generally available bottles are from the Scottish distiller. “Macallan, Dalmore, Bowmore,” he notes. “These three, from all the whiskeys I’ve tasted that are really old, they seem to hold up.” Of course, Sawhney explains that the hobby is not limited to those seeking five-, six- or seven-figure bottles. Indeed, when he began securing whiskeys more than 25 years ago, some of today’s prized finds could be had for $200 or so. He points to a case of Clonakilty, an Irish whiskey that currently retails for $80 a bottle, but is not produced on the scale of Jameson or other names. “Will it appreciate?” he says. “Not like rare whiskeys. But it’s something everyone can enjoy, an easy way to get into collecting.” There are essentially two rules one should follow when building a collection. The first is simple: when you find a desired bottle, buy two. The first is to pour and enjoy, the second to store away. And keep in mind, the more examples of a particular whiskey that are consumed, the rarer it becomes. The second is a warning, one more difficult to heed successfully. Just as in other hobbies, such as collecting autographs, one must be weary of scams. There are internet scams, where fake sellers lure would-be buyers with bargain pricing, only to disappear once a down payment has been made. Following the old “if it’s too good to be true” advice is necessary. But there are schemes much more difficult to unravel. Bottles and labels can be forged. Even worse, an empty bottle of a Yamazaki 55 year single malt, for example, can be refilled with a common brand with similar hues. Fall for that and the collector is out more than $500,000 for $30 worth of whiskey. There are some ways to avoid such fraudulent bottles, including taking it to a firm that performs carbon dating. However, Sawhney recommends being cautious as you begin or add to a collection. Doing research and gaining trust with a dealer—which may take some time—is critical. Once a collection is going, there are practices to follow. Bottles should be stored away from direct sunlight in a cool place. Humidity is also important. “Too dry and the cork can get compromised, which leads to oxidation,” Sawhney observes. Why is oxidation a concern? Because, he notes, there is enjoyment in building a collection. But there is greater joy in sharing—pouring a bottle for friends who appreciate the history and nuances of a fine whiskey. Sawhney’s personal collection, once at over 4,500 bottles, is now at a more manageable 800. “Good whiskey is meant to be enjoyed,” he says. Recently he and friends finished a Macallan valued at $700,000. “You can’t regret it. There is always a special occasion, and if you have a special bottle, opening it is the occasion.” And collecting whiskey is about appreciation, in all of its meanings. 22 The Best of Monterey Bay ® Haven 2024-2025 Daniel Dreifuss Mitchel Sawhney, owner of The Whisky Club, with a prized Macallan 50 Year Old from the Red Collection. Sawhney says that demand is high for rare Macallans.
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