δ13C-Ethanol as a Potential Exclusionary Criterium for the Authentication of Scotch Whiskies in Taiwan: Normal vs. 3-Parameter Lognormal Distributions of δ13C-Ethanol Found in Single Malt and Blended Scotch Whiskies

With the difference in photosynthesis process between C3- and C4-plants, 13C/12C stable isotope ratio of ethanol, i.e., δ13C-ethanol, can potentially be a basis for discrimination Scotch whiskies derived from different raw materials. This study analyzed 51 authentic single malt 34 blended by gas chromatography–combustion–isotope mass spectrometry (GC-C-IRMS) examined resulting data series fitting distribution processes. The evaluation result demonstrated that δ13C-ethanol fitted both normal 3-parameter lognormal distribution. For whiskies, however, conformed with rather than one. Moreover, 99.7% confidence intervals (CI) would define −23.21‰ to −30.07‰ distribution, while −11.19‰ −28.93‰ on statistical properties. simulative adulterated using more 30% C4-derived edible distilled spirits effectively discriminated means CI δ13C-ethanol. Since addition rectified produced C4 plant has been found some cases seized Taiwan, establishing valuable purpose whisky authentication.