Detection of counterfeit scotch whisky by 2H and 18O stable isotope analysis

► Water collected on site of distilleries was analysed for its isotopic composition. ► Genuine Scottish whiskies were analysed for their bulk 2H/18O isotopic composition. ► 18O isotopic signatures of source water and whisky were highly correlated. ► 2H/18O isotope signatures separated counterfeit from authentic Scottish whiskies.