Whisky distillers seek kosher status

A number of Scotch whisky distillers are attempting to target Jewish consumers by certifying their products as kosher.

Scotch distilleries are increasingly looking to age their whiskies in ex-Bourbon barrels, which are naturally kosher

Some producers are now enlisting rabbis to come into their distilleries and supervise whisky bottling, ensuring the principles of kashrut, the Jewish dietary law, are abided by.

While some whiskies are naturally kosher, such as those matured in ex-Bourbon casks, expressions that have been aged in wine or Sherry casks are not.

The current surge in virgin oak whisky also means that kosher expressions are now more widely available.

Distilleries now producing kosher-certified spirits include Glenmorangie, Ardbeg, Auchentoshan, Glen Garioch, Bowmore, Glenrothes and Tomintoul.

Hannah Fisher, senior brand manager for the Bowmore and Glen Garioch distilleries, told The Scotsman: “It’s a growing market, and we certainly have a Jewish community of whisky drinkers that ask for kosher products.

“We want to be able to give clear communication of what’s kosher and what’s not. We think it will continue to grow as a market, not least because there are more specialist retailers out there who can sell these tailored products.”

The demand for kosher whisky has particularly grown in Israel, prompting plans for the country’s first single malt whisky distillery. The Milk and Honey Distillery will produce kosher whiskies inspired by the flavours of Speyside and the Highlands.

According to the distillery: “We will make our whiskies the way only an Israeli whiskey can be made – with the waters of the Holy Land. We will use the best equipment, the best casks, the finest ingredients and it will be strictly kosher.

“Our goal is to make a fruity, flavorful whiskey that is not too sweet. It is the type of whiskey that enthusiasts and newcomers should both enjoy.”