Set 'Em Up, Joe

The demand for Scotch whisky by China is pushing prices up.

From Scotsman.com:

The price of a bottle of whisky is set to rise by 10 per cent as growing demand for the spirit in China hits supplies in Scotland, distillers warned last night.

Exports to China soared by 86 per cent last year, making 2005 one of the best years for whisky exports.

And in the first six months of this year, exports to China rose by 30 per cent compared with the same period last year.

It wasn't bad enough that the Chinese put upward price pressure on the petroleum market. Now, they're going to do the same with Johnnie Walker, Chivas Regal and Glenlivet.

It's recommended that prudent imbibers stock up before the price increases.