When Heirs Disagree: Handling a Wine or Whiskey Collection in Probate
When multiple heirs inherit a wine or whiskey collection, disagreements can arise. This guide covers how to handle these situations practically while protecting the collection's value.
What to Do Next
First, determine who has authority to make decisions. The executor or administrator of the estate typically handles asset sales. If no executor is appointed yet, wait until the court appoints one.
If heirs disagree about whether to sell, the executor should work toward consensus or follow the will's instructions. Selling often makes sense when heirs cannot agree on who keeps what.
- Confirm the executor or administrator has authority to sell
- Attempt to reach agreement among heirs if possible
- Keep the collection in proper storage during discussions
- Document the collection with photos and inventory
- Get an offer so heirs understand the current value
- Submit materials when ready to proceed
What Information Matters for Pricing
We provide offers based on what the collection is worth today. This gives all heirs a clear, neutral basis for decisions.
- Producer names and vintages
- Quantities and bottle sizes
- Storage history and current conditions
- Original packaging or wood cases
- Any documentation of provenance or purchase history
- Condition notes for any damaged bottles
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Piecemeal sales often reduce total value. Selling individual bottles to different buyers is inefficient and may mean lower prices than selling as a collection.
Moving bottles from proper storage during disputes can damage value. Keep the collection stable while decisions are made.
- Letting heirs pick individual bottles before valuation
- Selling piecemeal to multiple buyers
- Moving bottles to improper storage during disputes
- Waiting too long while paying storage fees
- Making decisions without executor authorization
How the Process Works
Our process provides a neutral valuation that all parties can review.
- Submit photos and inventory through our form or text to 213-770-9463
- We provide a written offer within one to three business days
- Share the offer with all heirs for discussion
- If accepted, the executor authorizes the sale and we coordinate logistics
- Payment is issued to the estate after verification
Privacy and Safety Notes
The offer we provide is confidential and can be shared among heirs as needed for discussion.
We provide documentation suitable for estate accounting and probate records.
All communications go through the executor or their designated contact. We do not communicate with multiple parties unless directed.
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
What if heirs want different things?
The executor has authority to make decisions for the estate. Getting a clear valuation often helps heirs agree on a path forward. Selling and dividing proceeds can be simpler than dividing bottles.
Can one heir buy out the others?
Yes. Our offer provides a fair market value that can be used as a basis for one heir to buy out others' shares if they prefer to keep the collection.
Should we wait until probate closes?
Not necessarily. Executors can often sell estate assets during administration with proper authorization. Consult with the estate attorney about timing.
What if some bottles are more valuable than others?
We evaluate each bottle individually and can break down our offer by wine or category if that helps with discussions among heirs.
How do we handle storage costs while deciding?
If the collection is in professional storage with ongoing fees, factor this into timing decisions. We can often complete purchases within two weeks of acceptance.
Can the executor sell without heir agreement?
Executor authority varies by jurisdiction and will terms. Consult with the estate attorney about the executor's powers and any required approvals.
Do you provide appraisals for estate purposes?
We provide offers representing what we will pay, which reflects current market value. For formal appraisals for tax or legal purposes, you may need a certified appraiser.