On Dec. 8 Christie's will hold the first spirits auction in New York since prohibition. Nearly 1,000 lots will be offered. Here are the top bottles to watch for. By Oliver Schwaner–Albright
Case of Barbeito 1795, a Maderia from Terrantez grapes, made during one of its best years. Barbeito is the king of Terrantez Maderias, and this case can be traced to the owner's private cellar. Until recently the 1795 appeared periodically on the market, but now buyers are hording their stocks. Or drinking it: even after two centuries its layered sweetness is balanced with an acidic bite. Estimate $30,000 - $48,000 (Photo: Christie's Images Ltd. 2007)