The UK Government has announced that English Whisky has been granted Geographical Indication (GI) status.

The new status officially recognises English Whisky as a distinctive whisky category, 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.

More than 70 distilleries are now producing English Whisky, from Cornwall to Northumberland, up from 46 in 2023, with bottles exported to more than 30 countries around the world.

The industry has grown from a handful of pioneering producers into one of England’s most exciting food and drink success stories. Maturing stocks held in casks across England are estimated to be worth around £1 billion, underlining the confidence and investment flowing into the sector.

As the category continues to expand, this protection will help safeguard the reputation of English Whisky while supporting the skilled jobs, local investment and thriving communities at the heart of its success.

English Whisky now joins Scotch, Welsh and Irish whiskies as a recognised and protected whisky category, showcasing the breadth, quality and innovation of whisky production across the United Kingdom.

The application was led by the English Whisky Guild on behalf of its member distilleries, bringing producers together behind a shared ambition to secure recognition for English Whisky’s distinct qualities, provenance and growing international reputation.

Commenting on the news, Dame Angela Eagle, Environment Secretary, said: “The UK is home to world-class whisky production, from grain to glass. Standing proudly alongside Scotch, Welsh and Irish whiskies, this new protected status is recognition of English Whisky’s distinctive character and 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.”

Morag Garden, CEO of the English Whisky Guild, added: “Securing GI status is a landmark achievement for English Whisky and 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 English Whisky.”

To take advantage of this new protected status, English Whisky producers must first be verified under HMRC’s Spirit Drinks Verification Scheme.