As many of you know, new Scotch whisky regulations are now in effect. A summary of these regulations, along with a link to the actual regulations, was posted on the Scotch Whisky Association’s website. I have included it below.
Some of the requirements are significant. Do you have any thoughts or comments on these new regulations and its impact on whisky?
1. The Scotch Whisky Regulations (2009/2890) represent a definitive statement on the definition and presentation of Scotch Whisky. Full details of the new law can be found at
http://www.opsi.gov.uk/si/si2009/uksi_20092890_en_1.
2. The key provisions of the new law include:
? Five categories of Scotch Whisky are defined for the first time; Single Malt Scotch Whisky, Single Grain Scotch Whisky, Blended Malt Scotch Whisky, Blended Grain Scotch Whisky, and Blended Scotch Whisky.
? These compulsory category sales terms will be required to appear clearly and prominently on all labels.? A requirement to only bottle Single Malt Scotch Whisky in Scotland.
? New rules to prevent the misleading labelling and marketing of Single Malt Scotch Whiskies.
? A ban on the use of the term ‘Pure Malt’.
? A ban on the use of a distillery name as a brand name on any Scotch Whisky which has not been wholly distilled in the named distillery.
? Protection of five traditional whisky regions of production; Highland, Lowland, Speyside, Islay, and Campbeltown.
? A requirement that Scotch Whisky must be wholly matured in Scotland.
? Clear rules on the use of age statements on packaging.
? Designation of HM Revenue & Customs as the verification authority for Scotch Whisky.
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