Bonhams has concluded another sale of fine drams in whisky's capital of the world, Edinburgh, with nearly 450 bottles of exquisite single malts going under the hammer, several for four-figure prices.

It was a great sale for fans of The Macallan, as one in every 10 lots was produced by the great distiller, but two stood out: The Macallan 1938 and a 52-year-old 1946. Each in their original wooden cases, they brought £2,520 ($4,100) and £2,760 ($4,500) respectively.

A Laphroaig-10 year old distilled and bottled by D Johnston & Co. (Laphroaig) Ltd also made its mark. Possessing a good label with minor staining and dated by hand "Portree, May 1965" its level was at high/mid-shoulder. A happy bidder took it home for £1,600 ($2,600).

Islay-based Laphroaig is one of the most distinctively flavoured and strongest of all Scotch whiskies, and this should make an excellent investment.

The top lot however was the Bowmore-40 year old-Vintage 1955. The Caithness Glass decanter number 73 of 306 is accompanied by a stopper in a fitted wooden cabinet within the original packaging.

 The decanter is accompanied by a certificate of authenticity which invites the buyer of this lot to visit the distillery to sample this unique whisky. Accommodation is also provided in the distillery cottage in addition to a personal tour.

Whilst this perk obviously adds to the immediate value of the bottle without necessarily adding to the long-term worth, the rich Bowmore should be a strong investment just the same.