Casks Of Distinction showcase exceptional casks from across Diageo’s portfolio that are the very best examples from that distillery.
Casks of Distinction is a programme from Diageo to showcase and celebrate the very best casks from its warehouses across Scotland. Diageo owns almost 30 distilleries, however its most famous whiskies tend to be blended scotch. The Casks Of Distinction programme earmarks exceptional casks from across Diageo’s portfolio that they believe are the very best examples from that distillery, perfect for bottling as a single malt. These can then be bottled under the “Casks of Distinction” series distinguished by an eight pointed star.
If you are looking to sell a bottle from Casks of Distinction then we can help. Read on for an analysis of the recent market for Diageo’s Casks of Distinction and use the form below to receive a free valuation and advice on how to sell your bottle in 2025.
Sell Your Whisky Today
Please use the form below to submit images of your bottle and receive a free, no-obligation valuation from a specialist auctioneer. We will also actively seek the highest offer from our network of private collectors to help you sell your whisky.
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Casks of Distinction: Market Analysis
For this analysis we examined 100 auction results for Casks of Distinction bottlings from April 2024 to March 2025, providing a snapshot of current market dynamics across international auction platforms.
Regional performance shows the UK market maintaining dominance, with consistent stronger results than EU and US platforms. Vintage and distillery plays a crucial role in price determination, with pre-1990 distillations from closed distilleries commanding substantial premiums. Port Ellen bottlings consistently achieve 3-4 times higher prices than comparable age statement releases from operational distilleries.
Like most sections of the whisky market and general collectables, the market for bottles in the Casks Of Distinction series exhibit a gradual cooling trend. Prices and performance varies between distilleries, for example Benrinnes 1992 results showed a moderate price decline between June 2024 (£666) and March 2025 (£640). Whereas Islay distilleries like Lagavulin and Caol Ila maintained relative stability despite broader market adjustments during this period.
Price variability between auction houses is significant, with premium houses commanding 10-15% higher hammer prices for identical bottles. This pricing disparity is most evident with sought-after distilleries like Port Ellen, where UK-based auctions achieved prices 5-8% higher than their US counterparts for the 1981 37-year-old expression.
For current sellers who acquired bottles before the 2020-2022 market peak, the present climate offers favourable conditions for realisation. While values have softened from historic highs, demand remains robust for rare expressions, particularly those with distinguished provenance and limited availability.
How to Sell Your Casks of Distinction?
As the data above shows, it is important to choose the right time and place to sell bottles from Diageo’s Casks of Distinction. Not all auctions can generate the same results and choosing the right place to sell is important.
If you complete the contact form above, we can connect you with a specialist auctioneer who will provide a free, no-obligation valuation and expert advice on selling your bottle. The best whisky auctioneers will offer a free of charge collection service if you have a number of bottles, or even offer access to their own courier service if you just have a few.
Auctions often take place each month and commission varies from 5-10%+VAT and listing fees. The benefits of auction are a near guaranteed sale (if the reserve is sensible) and a quick payout after the sale. The auctioneer will advise on a suitable reserve in advance of the sale.
Alternatively, you may consider selling to a retailer. However, retailers typically offer around 30–50% of their listed price due to factors like VAT, corporation tax, and slow stock turnover, which can impact their buying decisions more than you might expect. If you sell to a retailer you will be expected to post the bottle to them yourself, although they might help with this too. Payment terms will be quick, but you will likely have to contact around 5-10 retailers to ensure you get the best possible price.
What Is Your Whisky Worth
Do you want to know what your whisky is worth but don’t know where to start?
Use these guides to help you.
What Is Your Whisky Worth? – An in-depth look at the factors affecting your bottle’s value.
A Beginner’s Guide To Selling Whisky – Everything you need to get started selling your whisky including all the online selling options.
How To Sell Whisky Online – A guide to getting a valuations and selling your whisky.
Sell Your Whisky Today – A simple way to sell your whisky fast.
Macallan Specific Guides
The Complete Guide To Valuing Macallan Whisky – Selling Macallan? This is your starting point.
What Is Macallan Whisky Worth? – Unsure of your Macallan’s value? Begin here
