Scotch Whisky Assocation Finds Indian Imports Problematic

By Richard Thomas

Scotch whisky’s principal trade organization has found the growing volume of cheap Indian imports that aren’t up to standard worrisome, and is calling on the EU to do something about it.

In its 2013 annual report, issued last Friday, the Scotch Whisky Association (SWA) stated that India has no required definition or standards for products labeled whisky, and much of what that country exports to Europe do not meet mandatory European standards. Under EU regulations, anything calling itself “whisky” must be fermented from cereals, distilled to less than 94.8% abv, and aged in wood for at least three years. No artificial flavorings may be added.

Most of the Indian whisky imported into the EU, often spirits that should be labeled as vodka or rum, has not been sold under Indian brand names. Instead, it is imported in bulk, blended with cheap European-made whiskies, and sold as a generic in supermarkets and other stores at very low prices.

According to the SWA, most of the ersatz “blended whiskies” are sold in France, Belgium, Holland, and Spain. In addition to calling on the EU to take action, the SWA has taken some of the importers to court.