Club gives the public chance to learn how to invest in whiskey

BY EMMA CONNOLLY 

WEST Cork Distillers have given the public a unique chance to invest in their whiskey at wholesale prices. 

The Skibbereen distillery, founded by John O’Connell, and Ger and Denis McCarthy, launched their Whiskey Cask Club on Saturday night. 

It has over 250 investors, the vast majority of whom either live in or have strong ties to West Cork, who have snapped up 4,500 casks.

James Brooks, Cask Club Manager explained how investors had three purchasing options: grain at approx €888 per cask; pot at approx €990 a cask and male at approx  €1,086 a cast. 

‘We estimate the casks of whiskey could appreciate at about 10-15% per annum over the next three years,’ said James. 

‘Enabling people to benefit from the strong growth of Irish whiskey was central to our discussions prior to launching the Whiskey Cask Club. 

‘In saying that, West Cork Distillers does stand to benefit. We hope to foster a good relationship with our members and be their first option when it comes to selling their mature casks of whiskey. 

‘Indeed, building trust and developing long term relationships are the core values the company is built on. We very much view the members of the Whiskey Cask Club as ambassadors of our brand and intend to represent them accordingly in the coming years,’ said James.  

A further 4,500 casks will be released in 2020 in three rounds.