Warning over ‘devastating’ plans that could change Scotch whisky forever - Mairi Gourgon described Scotch whisky as ‘one of our greatest exports’ as she pledged to raise the issue with Defra

Scotch requires the malt grains to be mashed, fermented and distilled all at the same site in order for the drink to qualify for the classification. However, the English application only requires the whisky to be distilled at one site to receive “single malt” grade.

The row centres on geographical indication status and is a way of protecting a product’s name and quality based on its place of origin

Scottish whisky makers oppose UK plans allowing English distilleries to label whisky as "single malt," fearing damage to Scotch whisky's reputation.

The English Whisky Guild (EWG) has applied for Geographical Indication (GI) protection status to the UK Government. The protective status would give single malt English Whisky protection from “misuse or imitation”. It can apply to agricultural products, spirits, beer, wines, and other food and drink.

Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs is considering applying for protected geographic status

Whisky connoisseurs have heaped praise on the bold Laphroaig Single Malt Whisky that has an almost perfect rating on Amazon.