In this episode of the Whisky Investment Podcast, whisky journalist Alwynne Gwilt is joined by Pete Allison, whisky maker at Woven, the Edinburgh based blending house that is quietly rewriting the rules of modern whisky. From a tiny lab in Leith, Woven brings together spirits from Scotland, England, the Nordics and beyond to create blends that focus on texture, balance and storytelling. Pete shares how the team sources casks from around the world, why they see blending as the most creative act in whisky, and what projects like “Friends in the North” and “Pastures New” reveal about the future of global whisky. Whether you are a whisky enthusiast, a world whisky explorer or an investor curious about where the category is headed, this episode shines a light on a brand that sits at the intersection of craft, design and experimentation. 👉 What you’ll learn in this episode: • How Woven went from a lockdown idea to an international blending house • Why blending is at the heart of modern whisky creativity • How Nordic and English distilleries are shaping new flavour profiles • The story behind “Friends in the North” and “Pastures New” • Why texture, clarity and balance guide every Woven whisky

<description>&lt;p&gt;In this episode of the Whisky Investment Podcast, whisky journalist Alwynne Gwilt is joined by Pete Allison, whisky maker at Woven, the Edinburgh based blending house that is quietly rewriting the rules of modern whisky.&lt;br/&gt;&lt;br/&gt;From a tiny lab in Leith, Woven brings together spirits from Scotland, England, the Nordics and beyond to create blends that focus on texture, balance and storytelling. Pete shares how the team sources casks from around the world, why they see blending as the most creative act in whisky, and what projects like “Friends in the North” and “Pastures New” reveal about the future of global whisky.&lt;br/&gt;&lt;br/&gt;Whether you are a whisky enthusiast, a world whisky explorer or an investor curious about where the category is headed, this episode shines a light on a brand that sits at the intersection of craft, design and experimentation.&lt;br/&gt;&lt;br/&gt;👉 What you’ll learn in this episode:&lt;br/&gt;• How Woven went from a lockdown idea to an international blending house&lt;br/&gt;• Why blending is at the heart of modern whisky creativity&lt;br/&gt;• How Nordic and English distilleries are shaping new flavour profiles&lt;br/&gt;• The story behind “Friends in the North” and “Pastures New”&lt;br/&gt;• Why texture, clarity and balance guide every Woven whisky&lt;br/&gt;&lt;br/&gt;&lt;/p&gt;</description>

In this episode of the Whisky Investment Podcast, whisky journalist Alwynne Gwilt is joined by Pete Allison, whisky maker at Woven, the Edinburgh based blending house that is quietly rewriting the rules of modern whisky.  From a tiny lab in Leith, Woven brings together spirits from Scotland, England, the Nordics and beyond to create blends that focus on texture, balance and storytelling. Pete shares how the team sources casks from around the world, why they see blending as the most creative a...

Whisky Investment Podcast S3 E3: Blending without borders with Pete Allison – Woven Whisky

In this episode of the VCL Vintners Whisky Investment Podcast, whisky journalist Alwynne Gwilt visits Doghouse Distillery in Battersea, London, home to the city’s first bourbon style corn whisky. She’s joined by co‑founder Katherine Saunders who shares the distillery’s grain to bottle ethos, their journey from gin to moonshine, and the launch of their bold three year old American style corn whisky. Discover how Doghouse blends creativity, sustainability and a rebellious spirit to make one of London’s most distinctive whiskies. Whether you’re a whisky enthusiast, cocktail lover or curious about innovative distilling in the UK, this episode offers a rare inside look at a truly unique urban distillery. What you’ll learn in this episode: • How Doghouse became London’s first bourbon style whisky distillery • Why grain to bottle matters in craft distilling • The journey from moonshine to mature whisky • How art led branding sets Doghouse apart • The role of British farming in their whisky production

<description>&lt;p&gt;In this episode of the VCL Vintners Whisky Investment Podcast, whisky journalist Alwynne Gwilt visits Doghouse Distillery in Battersea, London, home to the city’s first bourbon style corn whisky.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br/&gt;She’s joined by co‑founder Katherine Saunders who shares the distillery’s grain to bottle ethos, their journey from gin to moonshine, and the launch of their bold three year old American style corn whisky. Discover how Doghouse blends creativity, sustainability and a rebellious spirit to make one of London’s most distinctive whiskies.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br/&gt;Whether you’re a whisky enthusiast, cocktail lover or curious about innovative distilling in the UK, this episode offers a rare inside look at a truly unique urban distillery.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br/&gt;What you’ll learn in this episode:&lt;br/&gt;• How Doghouse became London’s first bourbon style whisky distillery&lt;br/&gt;• Why grain to bottle matters in craft distilling&lt;br/&gt;• The journey from moonshine to mature whisky&lt;br/&gt;• How art led branding sets Doghouse apart&lt;br/&gt;• The role of British farming in their whisky production&lt;/p&gt;</description>

In this episode of the VCL Vintners Whisky Investment Podcast, whisky journalist Alwynne Gwilt visits Doghouse Distillery in Battersea, London, home to the city’s first bourbon style corn whisky.  She’s joined by co‑founder Katherine Saunders who shares the distillery’s grain to bottle ethos, their journey from gin to moonshine, and the launch of their bold three year old American style corn whisky. Discover how Doghouse blends creativity, sustainability and a rebellious spirit to make one of...

Whisky Investment Podcast S3 E2: London’s Bourbon-style Whisky with Katherine Saunders - Doghouse Distillery

With former trade adviser Alex BoydWe’re back with Season 3 of the Whisky Investment Podcast, and this year we’re kicking things off with a truly global perspective. In this first episode, whisky journalist Alwynne Gwilt is joined by Alex Boyd, a former UK government trade adviser turned international trade consultant. Together, they unpack the implications of the long-awaited India UK Free Trade Agreement. The focus is on how it impacts Scotch whisky exports and what that means for investors in the space.From Brussels to Whitehall: Meet Alex BoydAlex Boyd has spent over 15 years shaping trade policy, working in both the European Union and the UK government. He has advised trade secretaries, foreign secretaries and senior ministers through Brexit and beyond, and now works with Strand Partners to help clients navigate global trade and investment policy. His expertise places him in a unique position to interpret the true significance of the India UK trade deal, particularly for the premium drinks sector.A 20-Year Journey to AgreementThe India UK deal is the product of nearly two decades of negotiation. Initially pursued through the EU in 2006, talks stalled and were abandoned in 2013. Post-Brexit, the UK restarted talks independently, identifying India as a high-priority partner due to its massive consumer base, rapid economic growth and high trade barriers.India has long been considered a closed and protectionist market, especially in categories like spirits where local production dominates and regulation varies from state to state. Despite this, Scotch whisky has maintained strong brand appeal in India, owing to cultural legacy and aspirational branding.Scotch, Tariffs and a Historic BreakthroughBefore this agreement, imported Scotch faced a 150 percent tariff in India. The new deal cuts that to 75 percent immediately, with a pathway to reduce it further to 40 percent over the next ten years.Boyd explains that while zero tariffs were the industry’s ambition, 40 percent is still a landmark achievement. Given the complexity of negotiating with India and the political sensitivity around alcohol imports, the result is seen as a major success.The Scotch Whisky Association called the deal “landmark” and expects exports to India to grow from £300 million today to between £500 million and £1 billion within five years.From Colonial Legacy to Bollywood AspirationsIndia has a long-standing relationship with whisky, beginning with British colonial rule and later reinforced through Bollywood’s portrayal of whisky-drinking characters. Over time, whisky evolved into an aspirational and celebratory drink, distinct from beer and other spirits.Today, India is the world’s largest consumer of whisky by volume, yet it still ranks only fifth or sixth by value. That gap represents a major growth opportunity, particularly for premium and ultra-premium Scotch producers.What It Means for the Industry and InvestorsThe impact of the deal will not be immediate, but Boyd believes the ripple effects will be far-reaching:<ul><li>Producers are expected to ramp up long-term supply to meet projected demand</li><li>Farmers and maltsters may see benefits first through increased orders</li><li>Exports to India could eventually rival those to the United States</li><li>Investment opportunities in aged casks and premium bottlings are likely to grow</li></ul>For whisky investors, particularly those looking at cask holdings or luxury-grade bottlings, this deal could unlock new markets and future valuation uplift.

<description>&lt;p&gt;&lt;b&gt;With former trade adviser Alex Boyd&lt;/b&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;We’re back with Season 3 of the Whisky Investment Podcast, and this year we’re kicking things off with a truly global perspective.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br/&gt;In this first episode, whisky journalist Alwynne Gwilt is joined by Alex Boyd, a former UK government trade adviser turned international trade consultant. Together, they unpack the implications of the long-awaited India UK Free Trade Agreement. The focus is on how it impacts Scotch whisky exports and what that means for investors in the space.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;b&gt;From Brussels to Whitehall: Meet Alex Boyd&lt;/b&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Alex Boyd has spent over 15 years shaping trade policy, working in both the European Union and the UK government. He has advised trade secretaries, foreign secretaries and senior ministers through Brexit and beyond, and now works with Strand Partners to help clients navigate global trade and investment policy.&lt;br/&gt;His expertise places him in a unique position to interpret the true significance of the India UK trade deal, particularly for the premium drinks sector.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;b&gt;A 20-Year Journey to Agreement&lt;/b&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;The India UK deal is the product of nearly two decades of negotiation. Initially pursued through the EU in 2006, talks stalled and were abandoned in 2013. Post-Brexit, the UK restarted talks independently, identifying India as a high-priority partner due to its massive consumer base, rapid economic growth and high trade barriers.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;India has long been considered a closed and protectionist market, especially in categories like spirits where local production dominates and regulation varies from state to state. Despite this, Scotch whisky has maintained strong brand appeal in India, owing to cultural legacy and aspirational branding.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;b&gt;Scotch, Tariffs and a Historic Breakthrough&lt;/b&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Before this agreement, imported Scotch faced a 150 percent tariff in India. The new deal cuts that to 75 percent immediately, with a pathway to reduce it further to 40 percent over the next ten years.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Boyd explains that while zero tariffs were the industry’s ambition, 40 percent is still a landmark achievement. Given the complexity of negotiating with India and the political sensitivity around alcohol imports, the result is seen as a major success.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;The Scotch Whisky Association called the deal “landmark” and expects exports to India to grow from £300 million today to between £500 million and £1 billion within five years.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;b&gt;From Colonial Legacy to Bollywood Aspirations&lt;/b&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;India has a long-standing relationship with whisky, beginning with British colonial rule and later reinforced through Bollywood’s portrayal of whisky-drinking characters. Over time, whisky evolved into an aspirational and celebratory drink, distinct from beer and other spirits.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Today, India is the world’s largest consumer of whisky by volume, yet it still ranks only fifth or sixth by value. That gap represents a major growth opportunity, particularly for premium and ultra-premium Scotch producers.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;b&gt;What It Means for the Industry and Investors&lt;/b&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;The impact of the deal will not be immediate, but Boyd believes the ripple effects will be far-reaching:&lt;/p&gt;&lt;ul&gt;&lt;li&gt;Producers are expected to ramp up long-term supply to meet projected demand&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;Farmers and maltsters may see benefits first through increased orders&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;Exports to India could eventually rival those to the United States&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;Investment opportunities in aged casks and premium bottlings are likely to grow&lt;/li&gt;&lt;/ul&gt;&lt;p&gt;For whisky investors, particularly those looking at cask holdings or luxury-grade bottlings, this deal could unlock new markets and future valuation uplift.&lt;/p&gt;</description>

With former trade adviser Alex Boyd We’re back with Season 3 of the Whisky Investment Podcast, and this year we’re kicking things off with a truly global perspective.  In this first episode, whisky journalist Alwynne Gwilt is joined by Alex Boyd, a former UK government trade adviser turned international trade consultant. Together, they unpack the implications of the long-awaited India UK Free Trade Agreement. The focus is on how it impacts Scotch whisky exports and what that means for investo...

Whisky Investment Podcast S3 E1 – Industry Insights: India Trade Deal - Former Trade Advisor to UK Government

Welcome to Episode 10 of The Whisky Investment Podcast by VCL Vintners! In this special on-location episode, whisky journalist Alwynne Gwilt travels to the Copper Rivet Distillery in Kent to sit down with Head Distiller Abhi Banik. Together, they uncover the unique story behind one of England’s most innovative craft distilleries.Alwynne and Abhi explore how Copper Rivet stands apart through its rare grain-to-glass approach, local ingredient sourcing, and pioneering distillation techniques. From custom-built stills to a patented hybrid still system, Abhi explains how meticulous process control and a commitment to provenance underpin every drop of their spirit.Listeners will gain insights into how the distillery’s unusual setup allows it to create multiple new make styles, offering a painter’s palette of flavours that evolve through fermentation, distillation, and maturation. Abhi also shares the inspiration behind their delicate single malt – a whisky shaped by science, heritage, and a passion for flavour-first distilling.This episode offers a rare glimpse into the thoughtful design of a modern distillery rooted in tradition, and how Copper Rivet is redefining English whisky with clarity, craftsmanship, and character. Don’t miss this deep dive into the future of craft whisky from one of the category’s most exciting players.

<description>&lt;p&gt;Welcome to Episode 10 of The Whisky Investment Podcast by VCL Vintners! In this special on-location episode, whisky journalist Alwynne Gwilt travels to the Copper Rivet Distillery in Kent to sit down with Head Distiller Abhi Banik. Together, they uncover the unique story behind one of England’s most innovative craft distilleries.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Alwynne and Abhi explore how Copper Rivet stands apart through its rare grain-to-glass approach, local ingredient sourcing, and pioneering distillation techniques. From custom-built stills to a patented hybrid still system, Abhi explains how meticulous process control and a commitment to provenance underpin every drop of their spirit.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Listeners will gain insights into how the distillery’s unusual setup allows it to create multiple new make styles, offering a painter’s palette of flavours that evolve through fermentation, distillation, and maturation. Abhi also shares the inspiration behind their delicate single malt – a whisky shaped by science, heritage, and a passion for flavour-first distilling.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;This episode offers a rare glimpse into the thoughtful design of a modern distillery rooted in tradition, and how Copper Rivet is redefining English whisky with clarity, craftsmanship, and character. Don’t miss this deep dive into the future of craft whisky from one of the category’s most exciting players.&lt;/p&gt;</description>

Welcome to Episode 10 of The Whisky Investment Podcast by VCL Vintners! In this special on-location episode, whisky journalist Alwynne Gwilt travels to the Copper Rivet Distillery in Kent to sit down with Head Distiller Abhi Banik. Together, they uncover the unique story behind one of England’s most innovative craft distilleries. Alwynne and Abhi explore how Copper Rivet stands apart through its rare grain-to-glass approach, local ingredient sourcing, and pioneering distillation techniques. F...

S2 E10 - Industry Insights: Crafting Spirits with Science with Abhi Banik- Copper Rivet Distillery

Welcome to Episode 9 of The Whisky Investment Podcast by VCL Vintners! Join whisky journalist Alwynne Gwilt as she sits down with Vinay Chavda, Head of IT at VCL Vintners, to delve into the innovative world of whisky investment technology. In this episode, Alwynne and Vinay explore how VCL is transforming traditional whisky investment through cutting-edge digital platforms, creating a seamless and transparent client experience.Vinay shares insights into the VCL investor portal, detailing how it empowers investors with real-time access to their portfolios, simplifying complex investment journeys. He discusses the groundbreaking integration of blockchain technology to digitise whisky inventory, ensuring traceability, security, and enhanced historical detail for every cask.Listeners will also discover how VCL is pioneering advancements with digital deeds and the introduction of Proof 8, a revolutionary end-to-end cask management system designed to modernise whisky investment processes from production to investor management. Additionally, Vinay explains how artificial intelligence is being leveraged within VCL&apos;s CRM systems, optimising client relations and maximising investment opportunities.This episode highlights VCL&apos;s commitment to blending tradition with technological innovation, making whisky investment accessible to a broader demographic, including younger investors seeking alternative investment options. Tune in to gain valuable insights into the exciting future of whisky investment technology and learn how VCL Vintners is setting new industry standards.

<description>&lt;p&gt;Welcome to Episode 9 of The Whisky Investment Podcast by VCL Vintners! Join whisky journalist Alwynne Gwilt as she sits down with Vinay Chavda, Head of IT at VCL Vintners, to delve into the innovative world of whisky investment technology. In this episode, Alwynne and Vinay explore how VCL is transforming traditional whisky investment through cutting-edge digital platforms, creating a seamless and transparent client experience.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Vinay shares insights into the VCL investor portal, detailing how it empowers investors with real-time access to their portfolios, simplifying complex investment journeys. He discusses the groundbreaking integration of blockchain technology to digitise whisky inventory, ensuring traceability, security, and enhanced historical detail for every cask.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Listeners will also discover how VCL is pioneering advancements with digital deeds and the introduction of Proof 8, a revolutionary end-to-end cask management system designed to modernise whisky investment processes from production to investor management. Additionally, Vinay explains how artificial intelligence is being leveraged within VCL&amp;apos;s CRM systems, optimising client relations and maximising investment opportunities.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;This episode highlights VCL&amp;apos;s commitment to blending tradition with technological innovation, making whisky investment accessible to a broader demographic, including younger investors seeking alternative investment options. Tune in to gain valuable insights into the exciting future of whisky investment technology and learn how VCL Vintners is setting new industry standards.&lt;/p&gt;</description>

Welcome to Episode 9 of The Whisky Investment Podcast by VCL Vintners! Join whisky journalist Alwynne Gwilt as she sits down with Vinay Chavda, Head of IT at VCL Vintners, to delve into the innovative world of whisky investment technology. In this episode, Alwynne and Vinay explore how VCL is transforming traditional whisky investment through cutting-edge digital platforms, creating a seamless and transparent client experience. Vinay shares insights into the VCL investor portal, detailing how...

S2 E9: Behind the Scenes: Tech meets Tradition with Vinay Chavda

The Whisky Investment Podcast from VCL Vintners (vclvintners.london) is the podcast for all whisky investors - new or experienced. Alwynne Gwilt (Miss Whisky) invites guests from the whisky and investment world to discuss pressing topics and news each month. Look behind the numbers and explore the factors influencing the market performance and broaden your investment horizon with VCL Vintners.

The Whisky Investment Podcast by VCL Vintners

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