Ballentine 2015 Special Holiday Brew Ale * Reverse Engineered brew * highly slaughtered after and last batch known to be brewd

Item Description:
This set includes three bottles of Ballantine Burton Ale, 2015 Special Brew, part of the last known batch ever brewed. Ballantine Brewing Company reverse-engineered this ale as a tribute to the original Burton ales that gained popularity in the mid-20th century. This particular brew was highly regarded for its historical significance, complex taste profile, and scarcity. After the brewing ceased in 2015, bottles have become highly sought after by collectors.

Distinguishing Features:

• Label Design: The label prominently features the iconic Ballantine three-ring logo and "Special Brew."
• Alcohol Content: 11.3% ABV (alcohol by volume) with 75 IBUs.
• Date Stamp: Clearly marked as 2015, indicating its production during the final batch.
• Condition: Bottles appear to be in excellent condition, with intact caps and labels. No visible leakage or deterioration of the packaging.

Historical Context:
Ballantine was one of the oldest breweries in America, with roots tracing back to the 19th century. The Burton Ale was originally brewed as a specialty ale and later resurrected in 2015 for a limited-time release. The company is now defunct, and these bottles are part of a final, commemorative production. Articles and collectors' forums have noted that bottles from this batch are rare, with occasional reports of individual bottles being sold for $300 to $500 depending on the buyer and market conditions.

Market Value:

1. Individual Bottles:
   • Low Estimate: $150 to $200 per bottle if sold individually.
   • High Estimate: $300 to $500 per bottle for collectors or specialty buyers seeking this limited edition.
2. Set of 3 Bottles:
   • A complete set like this could fetch $600 to $1,200, especially if sold through collector platforms or beer enthusiast forums.

Recommendations for Sale:

1. Identify the Target Market:
   • Beer collectors, Ballantine enthusiasts, and craft beer aficionados are the most likely buyers.
   • Consider listing on specialty sites like Beer Advocate, CraftBeerAuctions, or eBay, where collectors actively search for rare brews.
2. Highlight Provenance:
   • Include details about the rarity and the historical significance of this batch, emphasizing that this was the last production run of Ballantine Burton Ale.
3. Professional Appraisal:
   • While unnecessary for most sales, you may want to obtain authentication and valuation from a recognized appraiser specializing in breweriana (beer memorabilia) for top-dollar offers.
4. Storage and Presentation:
   • Ensure bottles are stored in a cool, dark location to preserve their condition. Use quality photography to showcase the labels, caps, and condition.

Conclusion:
These three bottles of Ballantine Burton Ale 2015 Special Holiday Brew are rare collectibles with significant appeal to the right audience. Based on current market trends, the set could be valued at $600 to $1,200, with individual bottles potentially selling for up to $500. However, prices may vary depending on buyer interest and platform. An in-person appraisal or authentication may further validate the rarity and secure a premium price.

If selling is a priority, focus on beer enthusiast forums and collectors' networks for the best results