Barrels of Glen Breton Whisky in the Glenora Distillery single malt whisky warehouse
Single malt whisky has long been a beloved spirit, but its price tag can sometimes leave us wondering why it’s so costly. Let’s delve into the reasons behind the high prices of single malt whisky.
Long-Term Storage and Maturation:
The minimum legal age requirement to label a single malt whisky is three years. However, most of us prefer whiskies that are older. At Glenora Distillery, our Glen Breton Rare Canadian Single Malt Whisky typically matures for at least 10 years. This represents a long-term investment, with a decade passing between the substantial initial costs of crafting the whisky and the return of a single dollar.
Whisky matures in oak barrels, and these barrels need a carefully controlled environment for storage. Imagine mountains of barrels, each requiring specific conditions over 10 to 20 years or even longer. There is currently a global scarcity of oak barrels, resulting in challenges related to both their costs and acquisition.
Temperature control is crucial to avoid issues with maturation. Barrels cannot be stored just anywhere; they need a tightly controlled environment to minimize evaporation.
Speaking of which…
Evaporation – The Angels’ Share:
The term “Angels’ Share” refers to the portion of whisky lost to evaporation during maturation.
Major distilleries report an average annual evaporation rate of around 2% from their barrels. However, newly made spirit evaporates at a much higher rate (closer to 3.5% to 4%) during the first few years.
Smaller barrels tend to lose more to evaporation than larger ones. Proper airflow is essential, as barrels stacked high can lose even more due to air surrounding them completely.
Over time, the angels continue to take their share until eventually, nothing remains if the whisky isn’t removed from the barrel.
Rarity and Small Batches:
Single malt whiskies are typically made in small batches, making them rarer. The smaller the batch, the higher the cost per batch.
Each distillery’s unique production process contributes to the distinct flavors of their single malts. These individual characteristics add to their appeal but also increase costs.
Labour-Intensive Production:
Crafting single malt whisky involves meticulous attention to detail, from mashing and fermentation to distillation and aging.
Distillers carefully monitor the process to ensure quality, which requires skilled labour and time.
Heritage and Reputation:
The reputation and heritage of a distillery play a significant role in pricing. Established distilleries with a long history often command higher prices.
Consumers are willing to pay for the legacy and craftsmanship associated with certain brands.
Packaging and Marketing Efforts:
High-quality packaging, branding, and marketing contribute to the overall cost. A beautifully designed bottle and packaging enhance the perceived value.
Marketing campaigns, limited editions, and special releases also drive up prices.
In summary, buying single malt whisky is like acquiring a piece of history bottled up for your enjoyment. The careful craftsmanship, rarity, and brand reputation all contribute to its expense.
So, the next time you savour a glass of single malt, appreciate the journey it took from distillation to your glass. It didn’t happen overnight!