Warm glow spreads through Scotch Whisky

Great to see the resurgence of Whisky that is going on in Scotland. This is due to the greater demand for our products in countries such as China, India and Brazil, with exports up to over 2.5bn last year setting a record high.

This is not only good news to the distillers but also good news to many of the supporting industries. Scottish Farmers are benefiting from doubled prices for Malting Barley, Coopersmiths are doing better, packaging firms are getting a slice of the increase and even CalMac are benefiting from increased demand for capacity.

In addition we also have a "Consultation" by the UK Government for tighter definitions of Scotch Whisky in UK Law. This would then lead onto possible use of the names in international trade agreements, Islay and Speyside would be in the same category as Champagne, Parma ham, Rioja and Roquefort cheese with protection from European trade law.

Scotch whisky has been defined for many years and is protected by law, but the new laws, which could be in place by spring 2008, will prevent foreign spirits using geographic areas in Scotland.

FT.com / Companies / Consumer industries - Warm glow spreads through Scotch whisky