There is a great opportunity for Scotland’s iconic whisky regions to be recognised as world heritage sites, says Scotland’s food secretary, Richard Lochhead. The announcement follows news that the French region of Champagne has been granted UNESCO World Heritage status.
Lochhead believe the industry and its stakeholders – including the Scottish government – should seize this opportunity to learn from the steps taken by Champagne, and the producers in the region, that will enable Scotland to have its six popular whisky regions to receive the same level of recognition.
He says, “This is excellent news for Champagne and rightfully deserved, and I now hope this could open up a golden opportunity for Scotland’s many whisky producing regions.
“The Scotch whisky industry is iconic and world famous, steeped in tradition and craft. It’s now time for the industry and public sector to investigate the Champagne region’s success and see what we can learn from it, for the benefit of Scotland.
Scotland’s six whisky regions are Speyside, Islay, Campbeltown, Highlands, Islands and Lowlands.