Single malt Welsh whisky is now officially recognized under the UK Geographical Indication (UK GI). This designation status, which went into effect on Monday, is meant to protect the name, characteristics, and tradition of products distinct to a specific area in the U.K.
The new UK GI program was launched in 2021 after the U.K. opted to withdraw from the European Union (EU), thus forgoing its ability to use the EU’s specific designation scheme. The UK GI program is intended to protect the geographical names associated with food, drink, and agricultural products that can be considered unique to where they are from.