Whisky Investment Podcast Episode 9 – Behind the Scenes: Tech meets Tradition: How VCL is Revolutionising Whisky Investment with Vinay Chavda

In this episode of The Whisky Investment Podcast, whisky journalist Alwynne Gwilt speaks with Vinay Chavda, Head of IT at VCL Vintners, to uncover how technology is revolutionising the whisky investment experience. From blockchain integration to AI-driven insights, Vinay shares how VCL is modernising the client journey—while preserving the heritage that makes whisky investment so compelling.

Redefining the Investor Experience

Whisky investment has long relied on traditional, often outdated systems—think paper certificates and spreadsheets. VCL Vintners has taken a bold step forward by developing its own tech infrastructure in-house. “We’re really focused on modernising the journey,” Vinay says. “It’s about making whisky investment feel as seamless and secure as modern banking.”

At the core of this transformation is VCL’s investor portal. Designed with user experience in mind, it allows clients to manage their portfolio from onboarding through to performance tracking. “The feedback has been incredible,” Vinay notes. “Clients love the transparency and simplicity.”

Digitising the Cask Inventory

VCL’s ‘Digitise Your Inventory’ initiative marks a major evolution in how whisky casks are managed. By leveraging blockchain technology, every cask is traceable, its provenance securely recorded, and its history transparently documented.

“This isn’t just about adding tech for the sake of it,” Vinay explains. “It’s solving real-world problems—like ensuring that investors never lose track of their assets.”

Proof 8: End-to-End Transparency

Another innovation is VCL’s investment in Proof 8, a platform that modernises the full lifecycle of a cask—from production to storage and sale. It’s a comprehensive solution that reinforces trust and gives clients a deeper understanding of their investment.

“It’s about more than just improving our clients’ journey,” says Vinay. “It’s about transforming the entire whisky investment ecosystem.”

Introducing Digital Deeds

Traditional paper certificates are static and easily outdated. Digital deeds, by contrast, offer a living record of each cask—capturing its origin, valuation history, and movements over time.

“These digital footprints build trust and offer far more detail than a static document ever could,” Vinay says. “They also future-proof investments by adapting as technology evolves.”

Leveraging AI for Smarter Investment

AI has found a powerful application behind the scenes at VCL. Integrated into the CRM, it supports client relations and identifies emerging opportunities for investors.

“Our team can now provide even more targeted service,” Vinay explains. “AI helps ensure we’re always giving the best advice—and spotting ways to optimise returns.”

Accessible Tech, Heritage Heart

Despite the sophisticated tech at play, VCL places great emphasis on accessibility. “It’s all about design,” Vinay says. “We obsess over keeping things clear, simple, and minimal for our investors.”

Importantly, the adoption of technology hasn’t diluted whisky’s rich history. “In fact, digitisation enhances it,” Vinay adds. “It allows us to tell the full story of a cask—something paper certificates never could.”

Reaching a New Generation of Investors

Technology is helping VCL reach a younger demographic who are keen to diversify their portfolios. “These are savvy investors who want visibility and control,” Vinay says. “They expect to track whisky investments just as easily as they would stocks or crypto.”

This digital-first approach is creating a new standard in the industry—one that blends transparency, security, and tradition.

What’s Next for Tech at VCL?

Without revealing too much, Vinay teases a busy year ahead. “We’re constantly innovating—always listening to our clients and looking at how we can improve the experience.”

For VCL, technology isn’t a distraction from whisky’s heritage—it’s a tool to preserve it, enhance it, and share it more meaningfully with investors.