🥃 40% Surge in South Korea's Whiskey Imports
Plus: Indian Whiskey Tops Global Brands, a $136,948 Dalmore, and More.
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Hey folks, today we break down South Korea's surge in whiskey imports, an Indian whiskey that surpassed global brands, a whiskey with only 40 bottles ever made—at a $136,948 price tag, and much more. We hope you enjoy it.
⛏️ Our Picks
(Highlights if you only got 2 minutes.)
1. Whiskey Scams Surge on Social Media
Scammers on social media platforms are increasingly targeting whiskey enthusiasts.
These fraudsters create fake profiles using stolen photos and offer rare whiskies at too-good-to-be-true prices.
While whiskey has a rich history with the illicit trade, social media has given a new face to this old problem.
Despite the efforts of dedicated individuals and groups trying to expose these scams, the growth of premium bourbon's popularity makes it an enticing bait.
2. Waterford Whisky Expands US Presence
Waterford Distillery is broadening its US presence through a key partnership with Breakthru Beverage Group, facilitated by Texas-based luxury beverage importer, MORF Brands.
This move follows Waterford's recent expansions and aims to penetrate additional US markets.
The collaboration will introduce a revamped brand range, integrating terroir-focused methodologies, appealing to contemporary single malt enthusiasts.
3. Indian Whiskey Beats Top International Brands
Indri Diwali Collector's Edition 2023, an Indian whiskey, clinched the 'Best in Show, Double Gold' at the Whiskies of the World Awards 2023.
Originating from Haryana's Piccadilly Distilleries, this Indian single malt surpassed international brands, boosting India's reputation as a leading single malt producer.
🚀 Curated Collections, News, and More
1. 40% Surge in South Korea's Whiskey Imports
South Korea is experiencing a whiskey renaissance like never before, with imports of whiskey surging by a whopping 40 percent year-on-year through August.
What's Going on Here?
The surge in whiskey imports is a testament to South Koreans' evolving tastes and drinking habits, particularly among the younger generations.
During the initial wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, whiskey imports saw a sharp decline in 2020.
However, as people spent more time at home, a new trend emerged.
The rise of highball cocktails. These refreshing concoctions, often blending whiskey with carbonated water or tonic, have captured the imagination of South Korean millennials and Gen Z.
In May 2023 alone, whiskey imports saw a staggering 56 percent increase compared to the previous year.
This surge is driven by young consumers seeking unique cocktail experiences, with whisky serving as a versatile base.
What Does This Mean?
The surge in whiskey imports signals a shift in South Korea's drinking culture.
Whiskey is no longer just the drink of choice for those in their 40s and 50s at upscale bars; it's now the preferred spirit for younger consumers.
Sales data from retail giant Shinsegae reveals that whisky consumption among those in their 20s and 30s has skyrocketed, with single malt whiskies gaining particular popularity.
Moreover, this trend has far-reaching implications for the liquor industry, as it is boosting the sales of related items such as whisky glasses, soda mixers, and even lemons.
Why should I care?
Whether you're a whiskey aficionado or someone curious about evolving drinking trends, South Korea's whiskey boom offers valuable insights.
It showcases the adaptability of an age-old spirit in response to changing consumer preferences.
This phenomenon underscores the power of social media in shaping drinking habits, as young South Koreans share their creative cocktail recipes and experiences online.
For the global whiskey industry, South Korea's growing appetite for whiskey presents a substantial market opportunity.
2. A Luxurious Sip at a Record-Breaking Price: The Dalmore 62
The Dalmore 62 Year Old, a whisky that not only titillates taste buds but also dominates the investment scene, has emerged as the world's most expensive whisky.
An astounding $136,948 price tag broke the record for the highest price ever paid for a standard bottle of Scotch.
What makes this Dalmore 62-year-old so sought after? It's all about rarity, with only 40 bottles ever made, each with its distinct allure and history.
In 2002, a bottle was sold for a then jaw-dropping $24,000. By 2005, another bottle was purchased for $35,000 at a hotel bar and almost entirely consumed on the spot.
Fast forward to today, and the allure of owning this exceedingly rare spirit has catapulted its value.
3. The Last Drop 1980 Buffalo Trace Bourbon Whiskey
In the world of craftsmanship, there's a stark line between fleeting trends and timeless excellence. The Last Drop's 1980 Buffalo Trace Bourbon Whiskey is, without doubt, in the latter category.
Each sip reveals layers: first, the robust oak, then the gentle caress of vanilla, and finally, the rich complexity of dark fruit—recounting decades of tireless refinement.
The allure of this bourbon is a testament to patience.
In a world that often rewards the immediate, The Last Drop 1980 is a testament to the beauty of waiting, refining, and cherishing time.
A bottle could run you anywhere between $12,000 to $15,000.
❓Miscellaneous
1. The oldest known bottle of whiskey has been found in the cellar of financier J.P.
4. How did Jack Daniels get his start in the whiskey business?
5. What is the brand of the first sour mash whiskey made in 1835?
🔦 Distillery Spotlight
We're shining a light on independent whiskey distilleries with hidden gems across the U.S., state by state. Buckle up!
🍑 Georgia
Lazy Guy Distillery
Lazy Guy Distillery in historic Kennesaw, GA, crafts unique whiskey from regional grains. They've earned accolades, offer seasonal cocktails, and prioritize handcrafted small-batch spirits. Their signature whiskey, Embers Straight Bourbon, is aged between 6 to 8 years—with notes of vanilla, caramel, spice, and oak.Legends Distillery
Legends Distillery is Georgia's award-winning source of world-class Bourbons—locally owned, prizing quality and community. Their signature whiskey, Legends 87 Bourbon, has won multiple national and international awards and has vanilla, caramel, cherry, and spicy rye notes.Remedy Distillery
Remedy Distillery, located in the heart of Gainesville, GA, offers unique bourbons with individual barrel character, from smooth caramel to spicy cinnamon and crisp apple infusions. Their signature whiskey, Remedy Straight Bourbon, is a single barrel, aged bourbon with soft caramel and vanilla flavors, with hints of cocoa and toasted nuts.
✨ Whiskey + AI Image of the Week
We’re using Midjourney to develop these images. It doesn’t disappoint. The captions show the prompts we used.
Today’s edition is presented by Bright Cellars. The wine club for real people.
Bright Cellars believes that anyone can be a wine person. Learn what you like with their simple and fun wine taste quiz, and experience the joy of wine delivered to your door. No commitment. No fine print. Just wine your way.
Bright Cellars is offering Tipple subscribers $100 off(!) their subscription.
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