Fine Scotch whisky pleases more Asian palates(2)
"Scotch in China is still largely consumed in major cities like Beijing and Shanghai," said David Williamson, a spokesman for the Scotch Whisky Association.
"But with a whole range of metropolitan areas with populations larger than Scotland, whisky is set to grow in popularity so there are undoubtedly opportunities there."
Despite the ramped up prices, experts say the value of rare whiskies, which can be opened and slowly drunk over years, is still cheaper than many vintage wines that have to be drunk in one sitting, making whisky a sound potential investment.
"This is an enduring quality category, which will be there forever," said Espey who has begun to sell his $2,400-a-bottle The Last Drop blend to aficionados in Hong Kong and China.
"The patience, the peace, the tranquility. Scotch is unique. This industry is over 500 years old. There's quite an art form to the production of it. It's very quality controlled ... (and) that's what makes it so special," Espey added.
