Dutch whisky collector Hans Sommer has got his own back on a whisky producer, and his money as well!

Hans has sold back his comprehensive collection of over 200 Bowmores which is going to be housed at the distillery visitor centre as part of an exhibition on the history of the distillery.

As far as we are aware this is the first instance of a collector succeeding in the realisation of the value of his collection in such a way.

The collection includes three ‘Black’ Bowmores, that at auction can reach up to £1,500 each; a complete set of 11 Bowmore ‘Legend’ special edition tins and many Bowmore miniatures, water jugs and old and new gift items.

The collection is considered to be the most comprehensive of Bowmore.

 

 

SWR spoke to Hans.
 

“I started collecting miniatures in 1987, and a few years later (empty) whisky-tins. By the end of 1996 I started to sell some of my miniatures and to collect full size bottles of Bowmore. I sold all of miniature collection by 2002 and now my Bowmore collection. I will continue to collect my whisky tin presentations!”

“The most rare was a Bowmore 25 years old for ‘Auld Alliance’ at Chateau Lagrange which was limited to 75 bottles only. I had 9 different Bowmore Bi-Centenary bottlings which were precious to me and other specialities are still available to be seen on my website www.sirbowmore.info.

“No comment on the sale value, sorry!”

We asked if he had any other comments, what is he collecting now, and any advice for other whisky collectors?

“I will continue collecting the tin boxes for the time being”.

“My advice would be to build a good network of collectors who help each other. Treat them fairly with fair prices and you will be treated the same way. Be happy with what you’ve got, don’t be unhappy with what you are missing. Don’t envy other people who have your missing bottles but praise them with their findings. Don’t buy bottles at any price, as with a little patience you might get a better deal some time later. Buy new editions as soon as possible before they increase in value. Display your collection to have more enjoyment from it. Go to see the people at the distillery and meet other collectors in person as well as shops like Loch Fyne Whiskies”.