Can I Drink Old Whiskey from My Late Granma’s Duck Bottles?

I recently inherited a collection of alcohol ducks from my grandmother. These ducks, as we know them, are large decanters typically used to store and serve whiskey. As you can imagine, my curiosity was piqued when I discovered that there was still some whiskey left in a few of these ducks. After all, I’ve never heard of whiskey going bad, or have I?

Understanding Whiskey Aging and Storage

From an RCC (Relevant Clergyman’s Counsel) perspective, it’s important to note that while whiskey doesn’t technically go bad like some perishable foods, it can, under specific conditions, do so. If the whiskey is not in a well-sealed bottle, it can experience a loss of alcohol and other volatile compounds over time.

However, if the ducks still bear the brand and the year of production, they may be more valuable as collectibles than as drinking vessels. This is a fascinating opportunity, especially if you consider the antique and collectible market for whiskey-related items.

Checking for Collectors Online

The first step is to consult with collectors online. Many collectors can identify and value items with accuracy. Take a picture of the bottles in question and post them on specialized forums or social media groups dedicated to whiskey and collectibles. You can also consult with local collectors or auctioneers who can provide professional assessments.

Once you have an idea of the value, you can decide whether it makes sense to preserve these pieces as collectibles or if you should proceed with drinking the whiskey. Remember that the condition of the bottles is crucial; if they are still sealed and in good condition, they can indeed be valuable collectibles.

Researching the Value

It’s worth exploring the market for whiskey-related collectibles. Antique whiskey bottles, particularly those with original contents, can be highly sought after. Research online for similar items and their current market values. Websites like eBay and Rocity can provide a wealth of information.

Your local antique or collectibles store might also be able to give you insight into the current market and potential selling price. Remember, the key factors for the value of these items include the brand, the year of production, and the rarity of the bottles.

Alternative Uses and Gift Giving

If the whiskey is indeed valuable or you prefer to keep the items as collectibles, consider storing them in (proprietary packaging) that ensures they remain in pristine condition. Alternatively, you could use the empty decanters for decorative purposes or to display other collectibles like coins, glassware, or other memorabilia.

If preserving these items as collectibles is not an option, you might take a different approach. Instead of drinking the whiskey, consider starting a gift-giving tradition. Share these bottles with friends, family, or as gifts for special occasions. This way, you can honor your late grandmother’s legacy while also enjoying the sentimental value of her collection.

Conclusion

In conclusion, whether you can drink whiskey from your grandmother’s ducks depends largely on the condition of the bottles and the potential value of the collectibles. Whether you decide to preserve them as collectibles or enjoy the whiskey, the most important thing is to honor the memory of your grandmother and appreciate the unique heritage of your collection.

References and Further Reading

eBay

eBay—A great place to research comparable items and their current market values.

Rocity

Rocity—A helpful site for identifying and valuing antique and vintage bottles.

Proprietary Packaging

Antique Library—Provides information on proper storage methods for valuable items.