Rare whisky goes on auction at Harrods

Written by Claire Weekes

Wednesday, 20 August 2008

The first ever bottle of Jura 40 year old whisky is to be sold at a silent auction at Harrods.

The first bottling of the single malt whisky, which is also the last remaining of the 98 bottles produced, is expected to be sold for more than £2000 - the reserve price that has been placed on it.

Harrods kicked off the auction last week with a themed Scottish day in the store which runs until the end of the month. ‘The Glorious 12th' event saw the first grouse of the season shot and transported from Scotland, alongside the Jura 40, and displayed in-store.

Richard Paterson, master distiller, said: "This is a very special whisky indeed. Filled to cask on November 12 1966, this whisky has been maturing on the beachfront of Jura for 40 years giving it great complexity in character. It was an instant hit when we brought it out last year and almost sold out immediately.

"The bottle we are auctioning is a very rare and collectable malt in beautiful packaging with documents to prove its authenticity. It would be a great investment buy, however I would not like to deter the receiver from opening it either, as it is also a fine dram of whisky."

Bids can be made in store until 23 September.