The Port Ellen Annual Releases became highly sought after with drinkers and collectors despite the original Port Ellen distillery closing in 1983.
The Port Ellen Annual Releases began in 2001 and finished in 2017 just before the 2018 announcement that the iconic Islay distillery would reopen. There are 17 bottles in the series ranging from 22 to 37 years old and all the whisky in the series was distilled in just three vintages—the majority is from 1978 and 1979 and just the 15th release was distilled in 1983.
The popularity of this series with drinkers and collectors was crucial in the decision to reopen the distillery. The reopening in 2024 was marked with the super premium Port Ellen Gemini Release, suggesting that Diageo’s plan is to maintain Port Ellen’s premium status. This is likely to make the Annual Releases even more popular with collectors as the brand grows.
If you are looking to sell a bottle of Port Ellen Annual Release then we can help. Read on for an analysis of the recent market for Port Ellen’s Annual Releases 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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Port Ellen Annual Releases: Market Analysis
Analysis of 100 auction results for Port Ellen Annual Releases across UK, EU, and US markets from May 2024 to March 2025 reveals several noteworthy patterns in this specialist whisky segment.
UK auction houses consistently command premium prices compared to their European counterparts, with price variations of 10-25% observed for identical bottles. The 1st Annual Release (1979) demonstrates particular volatility, selling between £1,000-£3,000 depending on timing and venue. US auctions remain limited but competitive, typically falling between UK and EU pricing levels.
Earlier releases generally outperform later editions, with the 1st, 14th and 17th commanding the highest hammer prices. The 20cl miniature releases represent strong value, achieving approximately one-third of their 70cl counterparts’ values.
The market shows signs of stabilisation after a significant correction from the 2020-2022 peak. October 2024 saw particularly strong results, whilst the most recent quarter indicates a slight softening in certain releases.
For collectors who acquired bottles before the 2020-2022 market peak, current conditions present a favourable selling opportunity, with strong demand continuing for these iconic bottles from the closed Islay distillery.
How to Sell Your Port Ellen Annual Release?
As the data above shows, it is important to choose the right time and place to sell your bottle of Port Ellen Annual Release. 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.
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