Rare French revolution cognac to bring a storming $26,500

A rare bottle of cognac which dates to the French revolution will highlight Christie's auction of Venerable Spirits and Cigars on November 13.

The selection of cognac, armagnac, whisky and cigars offered in the Geneva sale has been amassed over the last 30 years by one of the most renowned international collectors. The auction provides a great opportunity to acquire some of the most sought after spirits ever produced.

1789 French revolution cognac auction
The 1789 bottle (not pictured) provides a perfect Bastille Day tipple



The cognac bottle is valued at $16,000-26,500. Dated to 1789, the grande fine champagne cognac was created at the same time as the storming of the Bastille. The bottle itself was produced by Saulnier Freres from the Reserve de Saint Amant de Graves and is in surprisingly good condition, with just a slightly shrunken cork and bin-soiled label.

Leading among the whisky offered is a 50 year old Macallan, which is housed in a spectacular Lalique crystal decanter. Complete with its original presentation case, the prestigious whisky will sell for $10,500-16,000. Another 50 year old Macallan in a Lalique decanter sold for $10,200 at Christie's in 2010.

Cigars will be highlighted by two cabinets of 50 Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No.2, which are expected to sell for $1,200-1,600 in a single lot. Also featuring from the illustrious brand is a lot of two boxes of 25 "Churchills", estimated at $600-800. Hoyo de Monterrey were the war-time leader's favourite cigars and have since been renamed after him.

A cigar that was half-smoked by Churchill sold for £1,320 ($2,110) in 2011. Learn more about the value of Cuban cigars with our market update.

We will be bringing you the results of this sale in the coming days, so be sure to check back regularly.

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