Distillers of Irish whiskey have been granted the EU’s coveted geographical indication (GI) status. This will give special protection status to Ireland’s whiskeys, Irish Cream and Irish Poitín similar to Champagne in France, Stilton cheese in the UK and Prosciutto in Italy.

A GI is a sign used on goods that have a specific geographical origin and possess unique or reputable qualities.

"It ensures that the traditions and high standards of the Irish whiskey category will be protected in the EU and globally in markets with which the EU has a trade agreement," said Carleen Madigan of the Irish Whisky Association.  

"As sales of Irish whiskey continue to boom globally, we have seen a trebling in the complaints to the association regarding fake Irish whiskey around the world. The GI provides the strongest possible protection against these infringements and gives us the basis for enforcement action against misleading products," she said.

Excellent news for Irish Whiskey!