This achievement not only establishes the Single Malt Welsh Whisky as a gem in the UK’s spirit landscape but also cements its place as Wales’ very first GI spirit, underscoring its exceptional quality and regional significance.

Joining an illustrious group of Welsh GI products, including Anglesey Sea Salt PDO (Protected Designation of Origin), PGI Welsh Lamb, PGI Welsh Beef, and Welsh Leeks PGI, this milestone reinforces the commitment to safeguarding the unique identity of Wales’ finest offerings.

The inception of the UK GI scheme in 2021, post-Brexit, guarantees that prized food and beverage products, like Single Malt Welsh Whisky enjoy the utmost protection against imitation and misuse; preserving their integrity and legacy.

The Welsh whisky sector has been on a remarkable trajectory since the re-launch of ‘Single Malt Welsh Whisky’ by Penderyn distillery in March 2004. The steady rise in demand for this distinguished spirit has fuelled the growth of Wales’ whisky industry.

A collective effort by four prominent Welsh distilleries – Penderyn, In the Welsh Wind, Da Mhile, and Coles – has culminated in the successful attainment of PGI status for Single Malt Welsh Whisky. This collaborative spirit underscores the unity and shared commitment to showcasing the finest in Welsh whisky craftsmanship.

Welsh Government Minister for Rural Affairs, North Wales and Trefnydd, Lesley Griffiths, said:

“It is brilliant news Single Malt Welsh Whisky has joined the Welsh GI family with its name now protected.”

“The Welsh whisky industry continues to go from strength to strength, playing an important role in the food and drink sector here in Wales.”

“I am very pleased for all those involved in gaining this prestigious status and ensure this fantastic product gains the recognition and prestige it deserves.”

Stephen Davies, Chief Executive at Penderyn said:

“The achievement of UKGI status for Single Malt Welsh Whisky is a significant milestone for Penderyn as a producer, and also for the wider Welsh whisky industry.  It assists in safeguarding both the quality of the product and also its source of origin. 

“It’s an exciting step forward and one that puts focus on an industry that has been growing steadily over the last 20 years.”

As an influential contributor to Wales’ thriving food and beverage sector, Single Malt Welsh Whisky has now become a global ambassador for the nation. It graces the palates of connoisseurs in over 45 countries and is poised to generate an impressive £23 million in revenue during the current fiscal year, encompassing domestic, export, and travel retail sales.

The allure of Single Malt Welsh Whisky lies in its harmonious blend of time-honoured whisky traditions with a forward-thinking approach to distillation. The result is a diverse spectrum of flavours and styles that captivate aficionados worldwide. Furthermore, the presence of distilleries as tourist attractions adds another dimension to Welsh whisky production, enhancing its appeal to both connoisseurs and tourists alike.