Proofworks and SegMint have partnered to revolutionise luxury spirits ownership through blockchain technology. Their inaugural offering, a rare 2008 Linkwood Scotch whisky cask, is tokenised into 100 digital keys, granting owners entitlement to two premium bottles in 2026. This initiative ensures transparency, authenticity, and traceability, addressing emerging consumer demands for meaningful engagement
Proofworks, a leading digitalisation platform for the spirits industry, has announced a strategic collaboration with SegMint GmbH, a digital assets management platform powered by VanEck. Together, they are transforming the luxury spirits market by introducing tokenised ownership, an innovation that promises to make rare and premium spirits accessible to a wider audience.
This partnership launches with the listing of a rare 2008 Linkwood Scotch whisky cask, a prized offering that can now be digitally co-owned through SegMint’s platform. Divided into 100 digital ‘keys,’ each representing a share of ownership, this initiative enables whisky enthusiasts, crypto investors, and collectors to participate in a unique ownership experience.
2008 Linkwood scotch whisky: A rare investment opportunity
The inaugural offering from this partnership is a coveted 2008 Linkwood Scotch whisky cask, originating from the Diageo-owned Linkwood Distillery in Speyside, Scotland. Recognised for its exceptional flavour profile, the cask is tokenised into 100 digital ownership keys. Each key, priced at 0.142 ETH (approximately £300), represents the entitlement to two bottles of this premium spirit upon bottling in 2026.
The whisky, selected for its distinct notes of ripe orchard fruits, sweet spices, and soft grassy undertones, is securely stored in bonded facilities, with its journey meticulously tracked through Proofworks’ blockchain-backed platform. Owners will receive bottles featuring exclusive artwork by acclaimed photographer Ernie Button, showcasing ethereal images created from crystalised whisky remains.
Transforming luxury ownership through blockchain and tokenisation
The Proofworks and SegMint partnership signals a transformative shift in luxury goods ownership, leveraging blockchain to create digital identities for physical assets. The tokenisation process provides a seamless connection between producers, brands, and consumers, enabling faster transactions, enhanced liquidity, and verified authenticity.
Rob Hollands, CEO of Proofworks, emphasised the innovation behind the initiative, stating, “The pace of change is greater than ever before. Spirit producers and brands are looking for innovative solutions to deliver improved supply chain transparency, unlock new models of ownership, and meaningfully connect with consumers with verified and authentic experiences. Our solutions connect every stage of the product journey from creation, through the supply chain, and into the homes of consumers.”
Matt Bartlett, Head of Web3 at VanEck and CEO of SegMint GmbH, highlighted the accessibility of the platform, stating, “At SegMint, we’re building a marketplace that combines the accessibility of platforms like eBay with the exclusivity and unique offerings you’d expect from Sotheby’s. Our goal is to make high-value collectibles more accessible, bringing unique opportunities to collectors everywhere.”
Enhancing transparency and trust in spirits industry
The Proofworks platform enables the creation of ‘born-digital’ products, where each asset is assigned a unique digital identity and tracked throughout its lifecycle. This ensures accountability and builds trust among producers and consumers. Beyond ownership, the initiative supports a transparent and verifiable supply chain, setting a new standard for luxury goods authentication.
This collaboration also addresses emerging consumer demands for meaningful connections with brands, allowing them to engage with their purchases on a deeper level. Bottles embedded with NFC tags will provide owners with instant access to the product’s journey and its unique brand story.
The tokenised sale of the 2008 Linkwood cask has already garnered significant attention across Europe and Asia, reflecting the growing interest in integrating blockchain technology with traditional industries. The SegMint platform aims to expand its offerings with more unique and exclusive listings, building a marketplace for collectors of premium digital and physical assets.
About the Linkwood Distillery
Founded in 1821 by Peter Brown in Elgin, Scotland, Linkwood Distillery began producing whisky in 1824. Over the centuries, it has undergone several transformations, including a complete rebuild in 1874. Now owned by Diageo, Linkwood continues to craft exceptional Speyside single-malt Scotch whiskies, contributing to Scotland’s rich whisky heritage.
About Proofworks
Proofworks is transforming the spirits industry by digitalising production, maturation, and ownership. Their SaaS platform streamlines distillery operations, and warehouse management, and connects brand products to consumers. Proofworks’ digitalisation creates assets and products that are ‘born digital’—ensuring traceability, authentication, and valuable consumer experiences. By using innovative solutions, new technology, and user-centred design, Proofworks optimises the entire spirits journey, from grain to bottle, redefining the way businesses and consumers connect in the ever-evolving spirits landscape.
About SegMint GmbH
SegMint GmbH’s marketplace opens access to some of the world’s most coveted tokenised collectibles, empowering collectors and enthusiasts to engage directly with rare and premium assets previously beyond reach. As NFTs and tokenised assets continue to transform the collectibles landscape, SegMint leads the way, providing a secure, dynamic, and inclusive platform that redefines digital asset ownership and interaction.
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