Auction PR Publicity Announcements News and Information
Auction PR Publicity Announcements News and Information

RICHARD WINTERTON AUCTIONEERS TO OFFER THE BRIAN BROOKS COLLECTION OF WHISKY DISPENSERS

Whisky is a drink steeped in history. First distilled in Scotland in the fifteenth century, it was consumed as a means of fortification against the weather. Originally popular with the poorer classes, by the mid nineteenth century thanks to more palatable blends, a lack of French brandy being imported and aggressive marketing it became a very popular standard drink worldwide.

During the Victorian period whisky became so popular that methods of measuring and serving the drink were devised. Metal and ceramic measures and vessels were produced and of particular note the elegant glass dispensers made during the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries when whisky became more sociable. The whisky would have been supplied to public house landlords in stone casks and the drink was dispensed into the elaborate large cut glass dispensers which in turn complemented the interiors of fine Victorian and Edwardian public houses.

Brian Brooks is a well known figure and authority in the world of whisky dispensers and measures. He has written books and mounted displays. His collection of large glass whisky dispensers and barrels are to be offered for public auction on 24th May. Some of the vessels bear brand names such as ‘Dewar’s’ and ‘Offiler’s’. There is even a rare example which has a lock on it to prevent the contents being watered down and incorporating a measuring device.

Estimates range from £150 upwards and the collection is being offered in Richard Winterton’s Collectors’ Sale in Lichfield on Thursday 24th May at 10am. The sale will also include a vast collection of 00 gauge model trains, diecasts and Meccano from a local estate. The illustrated catalogue is available online a week prior at www.the-saleroom.com/richardwinterton or phone 01543 251081 for further details.