The 1989 release of Yamazaki Age Unknown has an iconic and distinct, simple front label, the later 1994 release has the signature of Keizo Saji on the front label as wel.
The Yamazaki Age Unknown bottles were first created in 1989 to celebrate the life of Master blender Keizo Saji and honor his receipt of the Order of the Sacred Treasure. There was a second release in 1994 when Keizo Saji released his autobiography. Both versions of this iconic Japanese whisky were created from a variety of casks all aged 25 years or over but otherwise of unknown age.
If you are looking to sell a bottle of Yamazaki Age Unknown then we can help. Read on for an analysis of the recent market for Yamazaki Age Unknown 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.
"*" indicates required fields
Yamazaki Age Unknown: Market Analysis
This analysis examines 43 auction results for Yamazaki Age Unknown bottles sold worldwide between August 2016 and March 2025. Though a modest sample size, the data reveals significant market patterns across nearly a decade of sales.
The data clearly illustrates the 2021-2022 market peak, when prices reached over £17,000 in Asian markets, which is almost double current 2025 values. Since early 2023, the market has stabilised at more sustainable levels, with prices showing consistency around £6,000 to £8,000 over the past 12 to 18 months. This represents a market correction rather than a decline, returning to pre-pandemic growth trajectories.
The second release tends to outperform the 1989 release. The named Henkotsu Nankotsu edition consistently achieves approximately 20-30% higher hammer prices within the same auction periods.
Notable price disparities exist between auction houses, with Asian-based auctions consistently achieving premium results compared to their UK and EU counterparts. This regional variance highlights the importance of strategic auction selection, with Asian markets demonstrating stronger performance for Japanese whisky throughout the period analysed.
For collectors who acquired bottles prior to the 2020-2022 market peak, current conditions still represent an opportune time to sell. While prices have moderated from their peak, they remain historically strong compared to pre-2020 levels. However, those who purchased during the market zenith may wish to hold their investment for the medium to long term as the market continues its path of gradual appreciation.
How to Sell Your Yamazaki Age Unknown?
As the data above shows, it is important to choose the right time and place to sell your bottle of Yamazaki Age Unknown. 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
