S2 E1: Inside Whisky Cask Management: Expert Insights with Russell Bradley

Welcome to Episode 1 of The Whisky Investment Podcast by VCL Vintners! Join whisky journalist Alwyn Gwilt, as she chats with Russell Bradley, the man behind the meticulous operations at VCL Vintners. If you're curious about the journey whisky takes from cask to bottle, you're in the right place.

In this episode, we dive into the fascinating details of whisky cask management. Russell gives us an insider's look at his daily routine, which involves overseeing over 10,000 casks from distilleries all over Scotland. He explains the process of regauging, a crucial step to ensure the whisky's quality, and demystifies terms like RLA (regauged litres of alcohol) and OLA (original litres of alcohol).

We also explore the poetic concept of the "angel's share"—the whisky that evaporates as it matures—and how this natural process shapes the flavour of the final product. Russell shares the unique opportunities for investors to sample and bottle their whisky, offering a personal touch to the investment experience.

Russell doesn't just stop at the basics. He introduces us to the variety of cask types used in maturation, from the common bourbon barrels to the more exotic Calvados brandy and red wine casks. And for those wondering about future trends, he hints at some exciting experiments on the horizon that promise to produce some truly exceptional whiskies.

This episode is a must-watch for anyone passionate about whisky, whether you're an enthusiast savouring every drop or an investor looking to understand the intricacies of cask management. Join us for a behind-the-scenes look at the art and science that goes into every bottle.

🎵 Watch the video version of the podcast: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=La5PkdhzfLM