Whisky produced in Wales has now been granted protected status, alongside a number of other Welsh made or grown products.
Welsh whisky has been given geographical indication (GI) status and is the first spirit to be receive this status since the UKGI was formed in 2021. UKGI was established to protect food, drink and agricultural products made in Britain after the UK pulled out of a similar EU scheme following Brexit.
Welsh whisky has grown enormously in the past 20 years, with exports now reaching over 45 countries. Penderyn spearheaded the contemporary Welsh whisky movement when they were founded in 2000. They were the first new Welsh distillery in over 100 years and as their reputation has grown, along with that of Welsh whisky in general, they have been joined by other distilleries such as Aber Falls and Dà Mhìle.
It has been estimated that Welsh whisky will contribute £23 million to the UK economy this year. Granting Welsh whisky protected status will serve to safeguard the quality and authenticity of spirits made in Wales.
Most other major styles of whisky have already been granted similar legal recognition. Scotch whisky is a registered GI or Collective Trademark in different markets around the world, as well as being offered protection by Federal Law in the United States. Similarly, bourbon is protected by EU law and a specific agreement between the US and the UK.
These rules essentially mean that no whisky can be called Scotch or bourbon without meeting a range of criteria (I.e made in Scotland, matured in oak casks etc). Measures such as these help to ensure the integrity of these products around the world.
Now with similar legal protection, one hopes that whisky from Wales can continue to prosper.