The Collectability of Old Canadian Whisky

Canadian whisky, celebrated for its long, rich history and smooth, delicate flavour, has long been a favourite among true whisky connoisseurs. However, in recent years, it is not just the taste that is drawing attention to newer Distilleries and their expressions, but also the collectability of older rare vintage whiskies and closed distilleries of a bygone area.

The appeal of collecting old Canadian whiskies is multifaceted. For some, it is the thrill of the hunt, the excitement of finding a rare bottle tucked away in an old liquor store or at an estate sale. For others, it is the appreciation of history and the connection to an earlier era when Canadian whisky was world-renowned. And for a growing number of collectors, it is the potential for financial gain, as the value of rare bottles can skyrocket over time.

Several factors contribute to a whisky’s collectability. Age is certainly a factor, with older whiskies generally commanding higher prices. But rarity is even more important. Collectors highly seek out limited-edition releases, bottles from closed distilleries, and whiskies with unique stories or labels.

Some of the most collectible Canadian whiskies include:

Canadian Club 20-Year-Old

This iconic blended whisky, with its distinctive bottle and smooth flavour, is a classic among collectors, particularly in 2011 and 2012.

Seagram’s VO

Another well-known brand, Seagram’s VO has a long history and a loyal following. Older bottles, especially those from the mid-20th century, are particularly collectible. Prohibition-era bottles are highly sought-after.

Alberta Premium

This whisky, known for its high rye content, has gained a cult following in recent years. Older bottles, especially those from the 1980s and 1990s, are now highly collectible. 20-year cask strength first edition is recommended for all Canadian Whisky enthusiasts.

Crown Royal

This legend was introduced in 1937 by Seagram’s. Earlier expressions with the purple cap go for thousands at third-party auction houses.

Of course, collecting old Canadian whisky is not without its challenges. Counterfeit bottles are a concern, so it is important to buy from reputable auction houses, like Waddington’s. Storage is also important, as extreme temperatures, light and humidity can change the whisky over many decades.

Despite the challenges, the collectability of old Canadian whisky shows no signs of slowing down. As more and more people discover the joys of collecting Canadian Whiskies, the demand for rare bottles is likely to increase. As always, the supply will decrease due to the increasing interest and demand, and vintage Canadian whisky is finite. So, if you’re looking for a unique, iconic and potentially lucrative investment, consider starting your collection of old Canadian whiskies today.

Waddington’s is the premier source for the auction of collectable Canadian Spirits and the first place to start your vintage Collectable Canadian whisky journey.

Robin Morgan
Fine Spirits Specialist 

Winter 2025 Fine Spirit Auction

Our 2025 Fine Spirit Auction is available for bidding February 24 to March 4 and includes a vast selection of Canadian whiskies.

Consignment Opportunities

We are now accepting consignments for our 2025 auctions. For consignment information please contact us at [email protected] or visit the Fine Wine & Spirits Consignments page for more information.