From northern Alaska to sprawling Shanghai, ask a local to name
something Scottish and you might expect a few things. Whether
it's tartan or shortbread, rainy weather or even Nessie, the
usual suspects typically come to light. However, rightful
clichés - or not - aside, when it comes to a "wee
dram" there is one drink on everyone's lips: Scotch
Whisky.
Since its invention and export, Scotch Whisky has been a
household name synonymous with quality and success, becoming a
major international earner and reputational asset, helping promote
Scotland's image (and coffers) around the world. All fantastic
news - but like any success story, this potent mix proves a
compelling draw for wrongdoers, with undeniable power in exploiting
the Scotch Whisky name, brands, taste and history for substandard -
and even unsafe - imitations.