Selling Wine and Spirits During a Divorce Settlement
Dividing assets during a divorce can be complicated. If wine or spirits are part of the estate, this guide explains how to approach selling them with minimal conflict and proper documentation.
What to Do Next
Before selling any bottles, confirm that both parties agree to the sale or that a court order authorizes it. This avoids disputes later.
Once authority is established, gather what you can about the collection. If one spouse maintained records or purchased the bottles, those records help with valuation.
- Confirm legal authority to sell (agreement between parties or court order)
- Determine who will handle the submission and communication
- Locate any purchase records, cellar logs, or inventory lists
- Photograph representative bottles without moving them from storage
- Submit photos and inventory for an offer
What Information Matters for Pricing
We base offers on current market value, condition, and provenance. The more information you provide, the more accurate the offer.
- Producer names and vintages
- Bottle sizes and quantities
- Storage history (temperature controlled, professional storage, home cellar)
- Original packaging or wood cases
- Any condition issues (damaged labels, low fills, seepage)
- Purchase receipts or documentation if available
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Selling without clear authorization can create legal problems. Confirm authority before proceeding.
Rushing to sell to conclude the settlement may result in lower offers. If timing allows, take time to document the collection properly.
- Selling before both parties agree or court authorizes
- Discarding original boxes or packaging
- Moving bottles to improper storage while waiting
- Accepting the first offer without understanding value
- Using a public auction that discloses seller identity
How the Process Works
Our process is designed to be straightforward and private.
- Submit photos and an inventory through our form or text them to 213-770-9463
- We review and provide a written offer within one to three business days
- If you accept, we arrange pickup or shipping
- Payment is issued after we receive and verify the bottles
Privacy and Safety Notes
We understand divorce situations require discretion. We do not share seller information publicly. All communications are confidential.
We provide written offers and receipts that can be used for legal documentation of the asset sale.
We never require in-person meetings at your home. Bottles can be shipped or picked up from a neutral location where permitted.
What to Do Next
Ready to get an offer for your bottles? Submit photos and details through our form, or text photos directly if that is easier.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do both parties need to approve the sale?
We confirm authorization before proceeding. This may mean written agreement from both parties or documentation of a court order. We will discuss requirements after reviewing your submission.
Can I sell before the divorce is finalized?
It depends on your situation. Some couples agree to liquidate assets during proceedings. Consult with your attorney about what is permitted, then contact us with documentation of authorization.
How do you handle payment if proceeds are split?
We issue payment to the authorized seller. Division of proceeds between parties is handled separately according to your agreement or court order.
Will my name be public if I sell?
No. We are a direct buyer, not an auction house. Your identity is not disclosed publicly.
What if my spouse has the bottles but I have the records?
Coordinate to gather photos from where bottles are stored and records from whoever has them. We can work with partial information and follow up with questions.
How long does the process take?
Offers are typically provided within one to three business days. The full process from submission to payment usually takes one to three weeks depending on logistics.
Do you provide documentation for court?
Yes. We provide written offers and receipts that document the sale for legal purposes.