Editing Scotch whisky (section)

=== Legal definition ===
{{as of|2009|11|23}}, the [[Scotch Whisky Regulations 2009]] (SWR) define and regulate the production, labelling, packaging as well as advertising of Scotch whisky in the United Kingdom. They replace previous regulations that focused solely on production, including the [[Scotch Whisky Act 1988]].

Since the previous act focused primarily on production standards, it was repealed and superseded by the 2009 Regulations. The SWR includes broader definitions and requirements for the crafting, bottling, labelling, branding, and selling of "Scotch Whisky". International trade agreements have the effect of making some provisions of the SWR apply in various other countries as well as in the UK. The SWR defines "Scotch whisky" as whisky that:{{sfn|Scotch Whisky Regulations|2009}}{{sfn|Scotch Whisky Association|2009}}
*  Is produced at a distillery in Scotland from water and malted barley (to which only whole grains of other cereals may be added) all of which have been:
**  Processed at that distillery into a mash
**  Converted at that distillery to a fermentable substrate only by endogenous enzyme systems
**  Fermented at that distillery only by adding yeast
*  Has been distilled at an alcoholic strength by volume of less than 94.8% (190 [[Alcohol proof|US proof]])
*  Is wholly matured in an excise warehouse in Scotland in oak [[cask]]s of a capacity not exceeding {{convert|700|L|USgal impgal|0|lk=on}} for at least three years
*  Retains the colour, aroma, and taste of the raw materials used in, and the method of, its production and maturation
*  Contains no added substances, other than water and plain (E150A) [[Caramel color|caramel colouring]]
*  Has a minimum alcoholic strength by volume of 40% (80 US proof)

The [[Scotch Whisky Association]] acts as the regulatory body that ensures that Scotch Whisky is produced in accordance with traditional practices, as well as ensuring a sustainable future for the Scotch Whisky industry by promoting sustainable production, global trade, and responsible consumption.<ref name=":1" />