Bidders vie for rare single malts

Whisky lovers will raise a glass to the prospect of owning a rare single malt. And by raising a hand at the Bonhams event, they can go one better by bidding for some of the most coveted examples available anywhere in the world.

The auction house expects an enthusiastic response from bidders, especially for the Macallan Master Lalique Collection. The only set in the world, this consists of three decanter sets - 50, 55 and 57 years old, all encased in a custom collection chest, itself meticulously crafted with a plush interior and engraved copper plate (estimated price HK$460,000 - HK$590,000).

Other exceptional lots include a complete vertical set of Macallan 18 year, from 1954 to 1986, and a special bottle of Macallan Royal Marriage. Equally rare and collectible are the vertical set of Glenfarclas Family Reserve 1968, 1979 and 1982, as well as whiskies from top distilleries such as Ardbeg, Bowmore, Glenmorangie and Springbank.

Concurrently, Bonhams will hold an auction of fine and rare wines. Sourced directly from private cellars around the world, the top items include three cases of Romanee Conti 1988. The original wooden cases are in pristine condition and come with sequential numbers.

From Bordeaux, there is a case of magnificent Lafite Rothschild 1982 and one of Petrus 1982. And from a Far East connoisseur is an excellent collection of more than 600 bottles of First and Second Growths, including three magnums of Chateau Latour 1970 and 12 bottles of Lafite 1989, which is sure to attract great interest. Another highlight is a lot of 64 bottles from Californian cult winery Sine Qua Non.