Sotheby’s Ultimate Whisky Auction, London, 24 October
This is one of the few times where the word ‘ultimate’ bears no trace of hyperbole. This is the auction house’s first single-owner sale of spirits and the most comprehensive collection of whiskies ever offered at auction. It’s hard to know where to start. The 50 year old Springbank from 1919? The oldest Glenfiddich, a phenomenal 60 year old or four bottles of The Dalmore that are 50 years or older. In the words of the collector to whom these bottles belong: “I hope they find good homes in the hands of whisky lovers who will enjoy the experience as much as I did, both the drinking of them and the sense of history that each of these bottles brings.”
More details at sothebys.com
Christie’s Finest & Rare Wines Auction, New York, 11 October
Looking to fill those gaping holes in your wine cellar where your last bottle of Chateau Latour once sat? Well, get along to the Rockerfeller Centre on the 11th. Christie’s headline auction for serious oenophiles is a hall of fame of the finest, most sought after bottles you could ask for. Château Lafite-Rothschild? Try magnums from 1982. Cheval-Blanc? Cases of the stuff from 1990. Haut-Brion? Crown your collection with a 1989 Imperial. There are even six bottles of the incredibly rare 1998 Le Pin. Just try not to get carried away.
More details at christies.com
Bonhams Collectors’ Motorcycles at the Barber Museum, Birmingham, 5 October
Kicking off October’s auctions is Bonhams with its collector-specific motorbike sale. Headlining is a phenomenal 1940 Crocker Big Tank V-Twin – not going cheap with a £400,000 estimate – but even more interesting for some collectors are the rare parts available. Looking to restore your own vintage easy rider? This is the auction for you. Of course, if you don’t get precisely what you want you can always console yourself with one of the seriously cool Robert Carter posters also up for sale – a steal at around £700.
More details at bonhams.com
