Exclusive Cask Ownership
The First Casks of the World’s Most Northerly Scotch Whisky
We’re offering the exclusive opportunity to purchase our inaugural casks. Putting that into perspective, these will be the first casks of a Single Malt Scotch Whisky ever produced in the Shetland Islands.
We’re working with a variety of cask types for both finishing and entire maturations with emphasis on a combination of premium quality American and European Oak Casks. These casks are matured; the charred American Oak Casks are ex-Bourbon and will provide those lovely, sweet toffee, vanilla and light fruity notes, whilst the European Oak Casks are ex-Sherry to drive in dark, rich, fruity notes adding depth and complexity.
On our quest to define a flavour ‘infused with the spirit of Shetland’, Ian Millar has finessed a recipe which will, for the most part, remain secret, but we can say that a warm, rounded and smooth whisky is on the way.
With Ian we’ve already curated a number of limited edition bottlings from a variety of casks that he specifically sought out and procured. With these Editions he’s giving a nod to what to expect from Shetland Single Malt Scotch. All our editions are premium including blends and single malts. These releases have been extremely successful, selling out hastily, locally, and to Shetland tourists, but more significantly online, to a global audience of whisky connoisseurs seeking out quality and distinction.
FAQ
How do I purchase a cask?
To purchase a cask, follow these steps:
- Register your Interest – Complete our short, no-commitment expression of of interest form to register your interest.
- Review Terms & Conditions - We'll send you our Cask Terms & Conditions for your review and approval.
- Receive Your Invoice – Once you've approved the terms, we'll issue an invoice and confirm your cask number.
- Refund Protection - You're eligible for a full refund if your cask hasn't been filled within 6 months of payment.
Can I buy more than one cask?
Yes, subject to availability.
What is the maturation period in your bonded warehouse?
Casks will be kept in our HMRC-approved bonded warehouse for a minimum of ten years.
Can I buy a cask with a group of friends or business colleagues?
Yes, but please note that there will be only one name on the Cask (typically the name of the syndicate) and payment will only be accepted from one source. However, it is entirely acceptable for you to have a side agreement with friends or colleagues, and it would be your responsibility to set this agreement up, not ours. We will only send details directly to, and deal with, the contact listed in any purchase paperwork.
What are the costs associated with cask ownership?
Your cask has an initial purchase price plus ongoing annual costs covering warehouse storage, HMRC bonding, insurance, and cask care. These costs are itemised in your invoice and detailed in your Cask Terms & Conditions. They continue throughout the entire maturation period (minimum 10 years).
When will I receive the cask certificate?
The Cask Certificate will be issued after the Cask is filled, and you will receive visual evidence of the cask having been filled.
Can my Legacy Cask be gifted during the maturation period?
Yes, you can gift your cask during the maturation period. Return your original Cask ownership certificate along with details of the new Cask owner, and we'll then provide them with a new certificate of ownership.
Can my Cask be transferred to a new owner during maturation?
Yes, you can sell or transfer your Cask during the maturation period. The new owner will be required to keep their cask in our bonded warehouse for the remainder of the maturation period and to accept the same terms and conditions you agreed to.
Is my Legacy Cask transferrable on death?
Yes, your cask can be included in your estate and transferred to your chosen beneficiary. Your executor will contact Lerwick Distillery with the necessary documentation, and we'll transfer ownership and issue a new certificate.
Your beneficiary will assume responsibility for storage and insurance costs, but can choose to continue maturation, bottle the whisky, or transfer it further.
Can I visit my cask?
We hope to offer cask visits and tastings in the future. When available, visits will be by appointment only.
Can I extend my cask maturation period?
Yes, you can decide to continue storing the Cask with us for a longer maturation period for a small additional fee.
Is there any guarantee that my cask will increase in value?
Whisky casks are a tangible alternative asset that may increase in value over time as the spirit matures and supply becomes more limited. Value will depend on factors such as age, quality, market demand, and the reputation of the distillery. As with any alternative asset, performance is not guaranteed and values may rise or fall.
Is there a secondary market for reselling my cask?
There is no organised marketplace, pricing precedents, or guaranteed buyers. If you find a buyer independently, you can transfer your cask person-to-person (we handle paperwork), but Lerwick Distillery doesn't facilitate or guarantee sales.
