The Food Programme

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The Food Programme: The Wild West of Whisky: From Cask Investments to Dram Scams

The Wild West of Whisky: From Cask Investments to Dram Scams

BBC Radio 4 - The Food Programme, The Wild West of Whisky: From Cask Investments to Dram Scams

Jaega Wise explores the world of cask investment programmes, counterfeits and theft.

Jaega Wise and producer Robbie Armstrong explore cask investment programmes, counterfeits and even burglary – as bad actors enter the world of whisky to make a quick buck.

Whisky has long been associated with money and wealth, but in recent years prices of rare casks and limited bottlings have soared. A cask of Islay whisky sold for a record-breaking £16 million last year, and the number of cask investment companies is growing, with many of them promising investors big profits and the chance to own their very own cask of Scotch whisky. 

Behind the headlines and dollar signs, some industry experts are concerned at the practices of certain companies, worried that their promised returns are unrealistic and questioning their legality to trade in some cases. 

We hear from whisky consultant and broker Blair Bowman about why he feels many companies are “flying way too close to the sun”. 

Jaega Wise speaks to Pete Allison from new Edinburgh whisky blender Woven about the rapid rise in cask prices, the impact it’s having on his business, and why he feels the bubble is destined to burst eventually. 

Producer Robbie Armstrong meets Jennifer Rose, presenter of the Whisky Sisters podcast, to hear about her experience purchasing a cask of whisky.

Jaega also visits Holyrood Distillery to learn about their cask programme, which allows whisky aficionados to build a strong relationship with them as their whisky matures, and why they are clear that buying one of their casks is not an investment opportunity. 

We also speak to Glenfarclas about a high profile £150,000 robbery at their distillery last year, while auction director Isabel Graham-Yooll gives her tips on spotting counterfeit whisky. Finally, whisky broker Mark Littler shares his tips on the key things to look out for when buying a cask of whisky.

Presented by Jaega Wise. 
Produced by Robbie Armstrong.

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