In the world of connoisseurs and collectors, the allure of whisky extends beyond the pleasure of sipping a finely crafted dram. With its rich heritage and diverse expressions, Whisky has increasingly found itself under the spotlight as a potential investment.
Yes, Whisky investment! But as enthusiasts and investors alike navigate the intricate landscape of spirits, the question lingers: Is whisky a good investment?
Is Whisky a Good Investment?
If you’ve shared my journey so far, you know that I’ve taken my passion for whisky to an entirely new level by investing in my first-ever whisky cask at Lagg Distillery. Rather than list out all the pros and cons to investing in whisky, why don’t I share my investment story.
You see I made the decision to go for it and invested in a whisky cask. But why did I take this risk? Here’s my story…
Disclaimer: Please note that this blog reflects my personal journey and experience with whisky cask investment. It is not financial advice, and should not be interpreted as such. Always conduct your own research and consult a financial advisor before making any investment decisions. This post also contains links to products I believe to be useful to the reader, from which I may earn a small commission.
The Story Behind My First Whisky Cask Investment at Lagg Distillery
From Rare Bottles to Cask Investment
I love collecting rare bottles, but it’s tricky and often pricey. Losing out on ballots, storing them carefully, insuring them – it’s a whole adventure in itself. And trying to buy two (one for keeping, one for drinking) was never easy. So, I began to wonder if my hobby could become a long-term investment. And that’s when I found the answer in whisky cask investment!
The Lagg Distillery: A New Chapter
The Isle of Arran has been a haven for whisky lovers, and its rich heritage caught my attention. The Lagg Distillery, built by Isle of Arran Distillers Ltd, is a shining new star in whisky-making. They’ve been behind the very successful Isle of Arran Distillery, producing award-winning whiskies since 1995.
But Lagg is a new chapter. In 2016, the company decided to build a second distillery on the Isle of Arran to create heavily-peated whisky, contrasting with the lighter, un-peated style of Lochranza.
Investing in Lagg’s First Cask
By investing in one of the first casks, cask owners will enjoy following the journey of Lagg Distillery, which started its first distillation on the 19th of March 2019 and will benefit from being the proud owners of a bottle from Cask No. 1. I’m involved in a 10-year journey with Master Distiller James MacTaggart and his finest American Oak ex-Bourbon Barrels.
Investing in a whisky cask from renowned distilleries like Lagg Distillery can offer a range of benefits for whisky enthusiasts:
- It provides a unique opportunity to be a part of the whiskey investment market, which has often proven to be profitable.
- By investing in a cask, you have the potential to own a rare and limited edition whisky, like those produced by Arran Distillery.
- Scotch whisky investment allows you to diversify your portfolio and see significant returns over time.
- The promise of nurturing a heavily-peated spirit, which will be stored on-site at Lagg for a minimum of 10 years, was irresistible! Being a part of the Lagg Cask Society means my name will be displayed on the Wall of Fame in the distillery, forever connecting me with this thrilling venture.
So, it is a chance to own a piece of whisky history and a smart financial move for enthusiasts and investors alike.
Looking Ahead: 6 More Years to Go
In about 6 years from now, when the whisky reaches 10 years old, I’ll get my hands on this special bottle. Knowing that my investment is maturing and growing richer with time, the anticipation of that moment is exhilarating.
Recommended: Whisky Gifting Ideas
Understanding the Value of Your Whisky
Understanding the value of your whisky cask involves keeping track of market trends and staying updated on the latest developments in the whisk(e)y investment and scotch whisky investment markets. Having the right company take care of your cask, and by staying informed, you can maximize its value and enjoy the rewards of your investment.
It’s more than an investment; it’s about being part of a new and exciting chapter in whisky history, turning challenges into opportunities, and deepening my love for this liquid gold.
To my fellow whisky lovers, I say – embrace the adventure, take the plunge, and let’s raise our glasses to the exciting world of whisky. Speaking of which…
Get your Hands on the Whisky Worth Investing in…
But without the wait!
Here are some beautiful bottles of whisky distilled by Lagg and Arran that you could have delivered this week!
Shop at Loch Fyne
“This 10 year old single malt from Arran in Scotland’s western isles is the classic expression of the distillery’s style.”
Shop at The Whisky Exchange
“The Kilmory edition is the first core range expression released by Lagg distillery. The combination of peated malt and maturation in first-fill ex-bourbon barrels lays the groundwork for what will become its house-style. Aromas of smoked heather and citrus fill the nose, complemented by creme brulee, orchard fruit and bonfire embers.”
Shop at Master of Malt
“The third and final release in the series of inaugural whiskies from the young Lagg Distillery on the Isle of Arran. Batch 3 was matured in first-fill bourbon casks for two and a half years, before finishing in custom made rioja red wine Firkin casks for six months”
Arran Amarone Cask Finish Whisky
“The 2010 released Amarone finish from Arran. This has a similar style to the brilliant Sassicaia finish. Amarone is dry Italian red made using partially dried Corvina grapes, Rondinella grapes and Molinara.”
Shop at The Whisky Shop
“After initially maturing in traditional oak casks for approximately 8 years, The Arran Single Malt in this bottling has been finished in a selection of Sauternes wine casks sourced from an artisan producer of this iconic Bordeaux sweet white wine.”
Recommended: Sherry Cask Whiskies
Want to learn more about Whisky Investment?
Here are some additional resources:
- Arran Link: https://www.arranwhisky.com/
- WhiskyInvestDirect: This platform specializes in whisky cask investment and offers insights, market trends, and investment opportunities.
- Rare Whisky 101: Known for its comprehensive whisky investment reports and analyses, this site provides in-depth information on the secondary market and potential investment options.
- The Whisky Exchange Blog: While primarily a whisky retailer, their blog often covers investment-related topics and industry insights.
- Scotch Whisky Auctions: This site hosts whisky auctions and provides a great way to gauge market demand and prices for various bottles and casks.
- Whisky.Auction: Another popular whisky auction site that can help you understand the market value and trends.
- Whisky Advocate: Though based in the US, this publication offers a lot of useful information on whisky investment and trends that can be relevant globally.
- The Spirits Embassy: A London-based spirits shop that offers informative articles on whisky investment, trends, and tips.
- Master of Malt Blog: They cover a wide range of whisky-related topics, including investment, and provide insights into the whisky market.
- Whisky Auctioneer: This platform hosts regular online auctions, providing a window into the current value of various bottles and casks.
- Whisky-Online Auctions: Another reputable online auction site with a wealth of information on current market trends.
Disclaimer: While these sites can provide valuable insights, whisky investment can be complex and involves risks. Always do thorough research, consider seeking advice from financial professionals, and ensure you’re well-informed before making any investment decisions.
Cheers! And here’s to 10 glorious years with Lagg and 6 more years of anticipation!
Natalie | @fortheluvofwhisky 🥃