SynopsisThe distilled spirits industry is changing rapidly to meet the demands of globalisation. These demands are being met by the use of completely novel raw materials and also by the continued development of raw materials that are currently in use. Novel spirits of high quality are being manufactured at a price and with flavours that meet the aspirations of consumers. These products are being made at a time of ever increasing demands by legislatures to ensure that production is sustainable, with a minimal impact on the environment. As always, the continued growth and success of well established brands makes them a target for those who try to produce counterfeit products and take advantage of the established name of a product that has been developed and perfected over many years. Therefore, in 2008 there are many exciting challenges facing the distilled spirits industry, but also a number of threats. This book on distilled spirits contains 50 chapters which arose out of the Worldwide Distilled Spirits Conference - 2005 organised by the Institute of Brewing & Distilling, Scottish Section., Discussing the worldwide traditions and innovations associated with the production of distilled spirits, this comprehensive reference emphasizes the importance of continuing to have a supply of high-quality raw materials as modern agricultural practices change. The source material for this study originated in the second Worldwide Distilled Spirits Conference where hundreds of distillers from around the world gathered to share knowledge under the theme of production, technology, and innovation to meet the challenges of the future. Tackling environmental issues and the problems of grain supply, along with the threat of infiltrating counterfeit products, this sourcebook is an essential reference for distillers, brewers, research institutes, and anyone with an interest in spirits., The source material for this book originated at the Worldwide Distilled Spirits Conference - 2005. At that event, organised by the Scottish Section of the Institute of Brewing & Distilling, a group of over 250 distillers from around the world gathered to share knowledge under the theme of Production, Technology and Innovation - Meeting the Challenges of Tomorrow.