Before Bourbon casks most Scotch whisky was stored in French oak. American oak Bourbon cask dominance started in 1933 with the end of prohibition and has grown to the all conquering position it holds today - 97% or so of all maturing Scotch whisky. This wholesale change of cask type - and corresponding whisky style - has been achieved because of cheap prices and ready availability.

But another major change of direction is on the cards: increased demand for Bourbon casks from the Far East, Central and South America and the Caribbean is restricting the supply. Indeed, the 'once only' US distilling law for the use of casks in bourbon maturation, the reason why these casks are so cheap, could soon be rescinded. This would have far reaching consequences for the Scotch whisky industry. Distillers would be forced into increased recycling of casks, the inadequate halfway house solution.

Yet as second-hand Bourbon cask prices increase, the gap closes with the cost of brand new American oak casks. This potential Bourbonisation would have a major implication on future whisky flavor, color and age. Premium quality French oak wine casks will once again be back on the menu as they were back in the nineteenth century.