Nguyen Dinh Tuan Viet: The Collector with 16 Guinness World Records for Rare and Valuable Whisky and Cognac Collections
Nguyen Dinh Tuan Viet is currently the only collector to hold 16 Guinness World Records for his rare liquor collection, particularly his whisky and cognac collections, recognized as the most valuable in the world
Initially, Mr. Viet enjoyed whisky as a hobby. Over time, his fondness grew into a profound passion for collecting fine spirits. What captivates him about vintage and aged whiskies is their rarity and the secrets hidden behind the design of each bottle. Whisky, often referred to as the “water of life,” tells a story with every bottle, carrying the flavors of time and its unique maturation journey. Some bottles are extraordinarily special, such as the final limited editions from distilleries that have since closed permanently, making them irreplaceable treasures.
The inception and dedication to following a passion.
dedication and persistence have led him to spend significant time and effort tracking down the rarest, oldest, and most valuable whiskies worldwide to enrich his collection. To complete iconic collections like The Macallan Fine & Rare (1926–1997), he participated in numerous intense auctions and negotiated with collectors globally to acquire each bottle and assemble a comprehensive collection.
After nearly three decades of pursuing his passion, Mr. Viet now owns numerous collections and some of the rarest and most valuable bottles of whisky and cognac in the world. His achievements include 16 Guinness World Records in whisky and cognac collection, a well-deserved recognition for his tireless efforts.
Rare whisky must be owned. Unique cognac must not be overlooked
- Nguyễn Đình Tuấn Việt spirits collector –
The “top” bottles of The Macallan, highly sought after by collectors worldwide for their rarity, age, and uniqueness, are all part of his collection. These include the four most expensive The Macallan bottles globally: two bottles of The Macallan 1926 Fine and Rare (60 years), The Macallan 1926 Valerio Adami (60 years), with a label designed by Italian artist Valerio Adami, and The Macallan 1926 Peter Blake (60 years), designed by artist Peter Blake. Additionally, he owns two other world records: the world’s oldest cognac, Jules Robin & Co. 1696 (328 years), and the world’s oldest whisky, Old Glenlivet 1843 (181 years).
The Culture of Whisky Appreciation
Not just a renowned collector, Mr. Viet is also a connoisseur of fine spirits. For him, whisky is not merely a premium beverage but a symbol of sophistication and elegance. Rare whiskies offer a unique tasting experience and cultural significance, serving as spiritual gifts for enthusiasts and collectors. Each whisky carries its own distinct flavor profile. The way it is poured into a glass and how it interacts with the palate can vary greatly. As Mr. Viet puts it, “The best whisky is enjoyed with friends and family.”
For significant business meetings or intimate gatherings with close friends, he often chooses The Macallan to share those special moments.
While many collectors view whisky as a lucrative investment, with rare bottles appreciating rapidly after hitting the market, Mr. Viet has declared that he has no intention of selling his collection. To him, whisky is like a “spiritual child,” sometimes priceless and irreplaceable. He explains, “Money may not buy time, but it can buy bottles of whisky that encapsulate time.”