>I never really thought about it, in the context of whiskey.
>Is there some kind of middleman, for lack of a better term,
>that makes sure both parties receive what they are supposed to
>receive?

Im a part of some local facebook groups and its the trust of a small local community.

Ive sold a couple things and then asked "hey do you wnat to trade a few samples, here is what I have open"

Both times I was met with open arms. Am i 100% sure they are trading what they say? Probably not - but not far off. The main groupo where I participate in is geared towards drinkers and people who want to try and experience stuff--not just flip and have whiskey museums.

If someone in these local groups scammed another, you could report them and they would be banned.