Distillers' Charity and Sotheby's to host whisky auction series

The Distillers' Charity and Sotheby's have announced a six-year partnership to host three auctions of ultra-rare and unique Scotch whiskies.

The Distillers One of One auctions will be held biennially, with the first set to take place at Barnbougle Castle on the outskirts of Edinburgh on 3 December 2021. There are currently more than 40 lots listed - comprising one-off, never-to-be-repeated whiskies donated by Scotch distillers - with estimates ranging up to £250,000.

Proceeds from the auction will benefit a fund created by the Distillers' Charity, the philanthropic arm of the Worshipful Company of Distillers, to support disadvantaged young people in Scotland. The fund works with charity partners including the Prince's Foundation, which provides education and training, and the Youth Action Fund, which helps young people develop life skills and work readiness.

Jonathan Driver, master of the Worshipful Company of Distillers, said: "Our ties with the Scotch whisky industry have been invaluable in creating this landmark sale, and the generosity shown has been overwhelming. Across the spectrum of the industry from independents to family-owned and global companies, we have come together in a collective endeavour to support the youth of today in Scotland through practical training and educaiton.

"We are also delighted to have Sotheby's on board to help with our philanthropic mission, which will have far-reaching benefits for decades to come."

Jamie Ritchie, worldwide head of Sotheby's Wine and Spirits, said: "Working closely with the Distillers' Charity and the Worshipful Company of Distillers, we will harness our knowledge and expertise in hosting auctions to create a regular series of sales that will not only shine a light on the Scotch whisky industry, but also raise valuable funds to support disadvantaged young people in Scotland."

More information about the contents of The Distillers One of One will be distributed by Sotheby's and the Distillers' Charity in the autumn.

29 July 2021 - Bethany Whymark