New EU Whisky Law Welcomed

Clearer EU rules on whisky production, and improved protection for Scotch Whisky, have

been approved by the European Parliament today during a vote on new EU spirit drinks

legislation. The vote in Strasbourg was welcomed by The Scotch Whisky Association (SWA) which has campaigned vigorously for improvements to EU law.

MEPS approved a wide range of improvements to existing EU spirit drinks law, including a clearer legal definition of ‘whisky’, which will assist whisky distillers to tackle unfair and misleading practices overseas. Reflecting traditional practice, the new law, for example, makes it explicit that whisky cannot be flavoured or sweetened. A mechanism is also introduced that will make it easier to ensure national rules on Scotch Whisky are enforced across the 27 EU Member States.

Nick Soper, the SWA’s European Affairs Director, commented:

“Improved EU protection for the traditional way of making Scotch Whisky is a significant step forward. It will be easier to protect Scotch from unfair practices, supporting export success and the jobs that depend on that continued success.

“Throughout our campaign, the SWA has welcomed the support of the European

Commission, Scottish Executive, UK Government and MEPs. Working together, we have

secured an important result for Scottish distillers and the highest level of protection for