WHAT IS THE BEST WHISKY TO INVEST IN?
If you would like to know how to spot a whisky that could turn out to be a worthwhile investment, read on. Below, we offer pointers to help enthusiasts and collectors discover the best whisky varieties in which to invest.
To earn Scotch whisky denomination, a newly distilled spirit must remain in its oak cask for at least three years. Of course, as devotees will know, maturing the whisky for longer is desirable because it tends to yield better results. While some might see eight years as a minimum requirement, not least for the final bouquet and flavour, connoisseurs tend to prefer a more mature product for consumption. Twelve years – or longer – is a useful yardstick.
Disclaimer
Whisky cask investments are unregulated in the UK. The value of casks may go down as well as up, and returns are not guaranteed. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results. You may not be able to sell your cask quickly or at the price you expect.”
“Past performance is not a guide to future performance.”
“Investments arranged through WIUK are not covered by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS), and disputes may not be eligible for the Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS).
MARKET RESEARCH
Potential investors would do well to investigate which brands and editions are in high demand, while also watching the market for limited and special editions.
Without a doubt, buyer interest is strong. According to data published by the Edinburgh-based Scotch Whisky Association, exports rose to £4.9bn in 2020. In 2019, the liquor accounted for three-quarters of Scottish food and drink exports and more than a fifth (21 per cent) of the UK’s overall total exported food and drink.
More than 20 million casks lie maturing in warehouses in Scotland waiting for investors to discover and appreciate them as new investment opportunities. At the end of 2020, some 133 whisky distilleries were operating in the country.
MATURE WHISKIES
Although there are few guarantees in the world of investment, one could reasonably expect to see maturing whisky rise in value as it becomes rarer. Industry experts point to several top 100 investment grade whisky brands that multiplied in value five times over the last decade, due to strong demand and the relatively small number of distilleries.
Whereas NAS (no age statement) may be a popular technique with marketers, certified older scotch is becoming increasingly prized. Generally, irrespective of the brand and quality, older whisky makes a better investment.
At auctions, bottles from yesteryear continue to be desirable: Laphroaig 10-year old varieties from the 1970s, as well as Lagavulin 12 and Talisker 8-year olds. Limited supply and demand from curious connoisseurs look set to ensure prices remain high. Thus, when it is time for an investor to sell and realise their profit, whisky varieties such as these should deliver consistent returns.
TYPICAL INVESTMENTS
Finally, some investment opportunities that recently caught our eye and which we have been recommending to interested clients include:
BenRiach 2008, in hogshead size (225 to 250 litre) casks, sufficient for 311 bottles and valued at £17,900.
Tomatin 2014 in sherry butt casks (475 to 500 litres), containing 692 bottles and priced at £19,550.
Ardmore 2010 casks (barrel size), equivalent to 217 bottles and available to investors for £9,450.
Tamdhu 2016 whisky, in barrels with enough for 263 bottles. This variety has a relatively accessible price tag of just £2,550.
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Disclaimer
Whisky cask investments are unregulated in the UK. The value of casks may go down as well as up, and returns are not guaranteed. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results. You may not be able to sell your cask quickly or at the price you expect.”
“Past performance is not a guide to future performance.”
“Investments arranged through WIUK are not covered by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS), and disputes may not be eligible for the Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS).
WHISKY INVESTMENT BROCHURE
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HOW TO INVEST WITH WHISKY INVESTMENT UK
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WHAT IS THE BEST WHISKY TO INVEST IN?
If you would like to know how to spot a whisky that could turn out to be a worthwhile investment, read on.
As an Investment Partner through Whisky Investment UK we can assure you:
CASK OWNERSHIP
Clients own individually allocated whisky casks held in bonded storage.
STORAGE
Casks are stored in HMRC-authorised bonded warehouses in Scotland.
V.A.T
Casks stored in bonded warehouses benefit from suspended excise duty arrangements while in bond. Clients should seek independent tax advice regarding VAT or other tax liabilities.
PERFORMANCE
Ownership of individual casks means investors are not participating in a pooled investment fund.
GUARANTEE
BONDED STORAGE PROTECTION
Casks stored in HMRC bonded warehouses remain identifiable assets owned by the client, although administrative or transfer processes may still be required in the event of insolvency.
FULLY INSURED
Casks are insured against specified risks including theft and accidental damage, subject to policy terms and limits.
DOWNLOAD OUR GUIDE
The Whisky Investment UK guide will teach you all you need to know about the world of whisky, from expanding your knowledge to making your first investment.
Disclaimer
Whisky cask investments are unregulated in the UK. The value of casks may go down as well as up, and returns are not guaranteed. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results. You may not be able to sell your cask quickly or at the price you expect.”
“Past performance is not a guide to future performance.”
“Investments arranged through WIUK are not covered by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS), and disputes may not be eligible for the Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS).