WHISKEY.

Press, Volume LXII, Issue 12478, 14 April 1906, Page 9

WHISKEY.

Consternation has been caused in the ranks of the vendors of whiskey in the United Kingdom by a judicial decision recently given in England. It appears (says the "New Zealand Trade Review") that much of the spirit on the market under the designation of Scotch or Irish whiskey is really a mixture consisting chiefly of "patent spirit." Prosecutions were instituted against vendors of these spirits for selling them under a false name. The case lasted for some five months, the best legal talent being engaged for the defence; the whole matter was gono into in fullest detail, and the Judge's decision has at last been given. As a result the defendante wera convicted of having sold a mixture mainly composed of "patent spirit" as Scotch or Irish whiskey. It is anticipated that the case will be carried to tlie House of Lords if necessary, hut iv the meantime,

such spirit must be sold under its true name aa "Patent Spirit" or "Grain Spirit," and even a blend of true malt wniskey and patent spirit must be labelled "Scotch Whiskey and Patent Spirit." This decision will, it appears, affect many of the whiskies which are at present held in high repute, and will give a great impetus to all maltwhiskies, especially if confirmed on appeal.