Scientists have invented a simple way to tell real Scotch whisky from fake.

They blind-tested 17 samples of blended whisky, correctly identifying eight authentic and nine fake samples using an infrared spectrometer.
The hand-held device identifies the whisky by measuring whether the alcohol content matches the label and whether ingredients such as caramel colouring are present in the quantities expected.
Prof David Littlejohn, who led the research at Strathclyde University in Glasgow, said the present method of checking authenticity involved lab-based analysis “which isn’t always the most convenient system if a sample needs to be identified quickly.
“We have developed a system that could be adapted for use on-site.”
The whisky industry loses millions of pounds a year to black market traders, particularly in the Far East.