Gold Magazine February - March 2013, Issue 23 | Page 99

Names such as Macallan, Dalmore, Ardbeg,
Lagavulin, Glenfiddich, and Highland Park
should all have tastebuds being tantalised and
eyes widening as to the possibilities they present in the collector’s world.
Still, despite the evidenced prevailing love of
whisky, there are both logistical and economic
factors to be brought forth for consideration.
From a logistical standpoint, one does not
merely invest in the acquisition of a high-grade
bottle of whisky; its ongoing care is a lifetime
commitment, should an investor want to
adequately retain the product’s value.
Unlike wine, whisky must be stored in an
upright position. Safekeeping one’s bottles
horizontally may result in corrosion of the cork
stoppers due to the sheer strength of the alcohol, causing ailments spanning evaporation,
the build-up of sediment, and even leakage.
Sunlight and damp must be avoided at
all costs to ensure that labels, presentation
boxes, certificates and even neck hangers are
preserved; should damage, in any slightness,
befall the bottle itself, the overall valuation
dramatically decreases.