News about Danish whisky

The Guardian reports today that several Scottish distilleries are cutting production or stopping it altogether because of surplus stocks and falling demand. Holyrood Distillery, for example, has paused distilling, while Diageo is expanding storage capacity at Cluny. At the same time, pressure is coming from lower sales in the US, France and China, among others, even as India grows. This is probably the most important overall whisky industry story right now.

The British government has approved English Whisky / English Whiskey as a geographical indication. An important detail is that the registration itself and the legal protection do not take effect until 1 October 2026. The category has grown from 46 English whisky distilleries in 2023 to more than 70 today, and whisky is exported to over 30 countries. It is quite a significant development for the English whisky industry.

The community-owned Highland distillery says it needs significant new investment to secure its future. After this summer's maintenance work, whisky production will remain halted while management explores external investment and potential interested parties. The Spirits Business reports today that an investment in the millions will be required by 2028.

Cornwall Council has approved plans for a new distillery integrated into the former prison site. The approval was actually given on 18 August, but the story was picked up by the whisky industry today. The plans include production facilities, a visitor area, a viewing gallery and a tasting space. The Spirits Business specifically describes the project as an upcoming English whisky distillery.