LONDON, Sept. 11 -- The government of the United Kingdom issued the following news:
EnglishWhiskyhas secured protected Geographical Indication (GI) status, a major milestone for a sector that has grown from a handful of pioneering producers into one of England's most exciting food and drink success stories.
The new status officially recognises EnglishWhiskyas a distinctivewhiskycategory, reflecting years of work by producers across England who have combined craftsmanship, innovation and ambition to create a spirit with a character worthy of protection.
With distilleries from Cornwall to Northumberland, the sector is supporting local communities by protecting skilled jobs and drawing visitors across the country, helping drive growth in every postcode.
There are more than 70 distilleries now producing Englishwhisky, up from 46 in 2023, and bottles exported to more than 30 countries across the globe. Industry estimates maturing stocks held in casks across England to be worth around £1 billion, underlining the confidence and investment pouring into the sector.
Environment Secretary Dame Angela Eagle said:
The UK is home to world-classwhiskyproduction, from grain to glass.
Standing proudly alongside Scotch, Welsh and Irish whiskies, this new protected status is recognition of EnglishWhisky's distinctive character alongside the expert craftsmanship that goes into its production.
It's a milestone that will be felt far beyond the distillery gates, bringing jobs, investment and pride to communities across the country.
The application was led by the EnglishWhiskyGuild on behalf of its member distilleries, bringing producers together behind a shared ambition to secure recognition for EnglishWhisky's distinct qualities, provenance and growing international reputation.
Morag Garden, EnglishWhiskyGuild CEO said:
Securing GI status is a landmark achievement for EnglishWhiskyand recognition of the quality and innovation across our growing industry.
We are grateful to Defra and to everyone who contributed to this collaborative effort. This milestone will support future growth and international recognition for EnglishWhisky.
EnglishWhiskynow joins Scotch, Welsh and Irish whiskies as a recognised and protectedwhiskycategory, showcasing the breadth, qualities and innovation ofwhiskyproduction across the United Kingdom.
To take advantage of this new protected status, EnglishWhiskyproducers must first be verified under HMRC's Spirit Drink Verification Scheme.
As the sector continues to expand, this protection will help secure the reputation of EnglishWhiskywhile supporting the skilled jobs, local investment and thriving communities that sit at the heart of its success.
Disclaimer: Curated by HT Syndication.
