Unique whisky sells for £23,000

The decanter sold for more than its estimated price at the auction

A unique decanter of whisky that was blended from some of the finest whiskies of the last 140 years has sold at auction for £23,000.

The Dalmore Oculus had been expected to fetch between £15,000 and £20,000 at the Bonhams auction in Edinburgh.

It was described by the auctioneers as "one of the most precious whiskies ever to appear at auction".

The auction also featured highlights of the collection of the late whisky collector Willard Folsom.

The Dalmore Oculus was created on 15 October by the Highland distillery's master-distiller Richard Paterson, who drew on four decades of his experience.

The oldest whisky in the blend was distilled in 1868, with others selected from 1878, 1922, 1926, 1939 and 1951.

Speaking before the sale, Mr Paterson said: "This is the most exquisite expression I have personally crafted with all the loving reference it so richly deserves to seduce the most discerning and sophisticated palates imaginable.

"I am confident it will appeal to epicureans, investors and collectors."