But pundits affirm that the best whiskies for your collection and enjoyment remain a matter of taste
One of the most highly-anticipated whisky events is back this weekend from November 9 to 10 at Andaz Singapore, boasting over 100 limited releases and a diverse round-up of masterclasses. This will, after all, mark Whisky Live’s 10th anniversary.
Launched in Paris in 2004, it has since introduced sold-out editions in Shanghai, Johannesburg, New York, and Singapore. Organised by French spirits house La Maison du Whisky, the Singapore edition has evolved to become a multi-faceted extravaganza, where drink explorers and enthusiasts can “sip, share and shop” throughout the two-day affair.
“Whisky Live is the biggest, and only premium, spirit-centric showcase in Singapore,” shares Mathieu Musnier, general manager of La Maison du Whisky. "The 10-year milestone will see us renew our commitment to elevate the appreciation for whiskies and spirits by connecting the drinkers with the makers; and spotlighting people, product and passion in one celebratory weekend," he adds.
Speaking of improving with age, this year’s edition will see the return of The Collector’s Room—a highlight for discerning connoisseurs, where rare, sought-after bottles including untraceable bottles distilled in the '60s and '70s from La Maison du Whisky’s private collection amassed from over six decades, can be tasted.
(Related: Glenfiddich Grand Cru Whisky Debuts In Singapore At A Pop-Up Store In Changi Airport)
Scotch whisky lovers, in particular, can look forward to the likes of the coveted Glen Grant 1955 60-Year-Old by independent bottler and distiller Gordon & MacPhail. There’s also the Springbank 40-Year-Old, a special bottling released part of the distillery’ Millennium Set back in 1999; a Glendronach 1972 that was bottled for the French market and awarded a Gold Medal by the Malt Maniacs Awards 2009; and a Jura from 1975, among others.
In spite of their rarity, the demand among whisky lovers is growing, says James Cordiner, regional brand ambassador for The Balvenie. “There are fewer people who can get these rare whiskies, but the demand is high and is increasing, especially in Asian markets,” he asserts.
These are also a lot more expensive for the simple reason that there is very little left to bottle the older the whisky gets. “This is due to what is known affectionately as ‘the angels share’ and is a very important component of the making of single malt whisky,” explains Brett Bayly, Southeast Asia brand ambassador for Glenfiddich. “Imagine, one has to take care of something for 30 years just to get it to the right point to sell, but over that same period lose almost half of what was inside,” he adds, pointing out that roughly two per cent of the whisky in the barrel or cask is lost to evaporation each year.
(Related: Why More Women Choose Whisky As Their Drink Of Choice)