SCOTLAND has more drinks brands in the global top 100 according to value than any other country outside the United States, say figures out today.

Sixteen Scottish brands made the “power brands” list, with Diageo’s Johnnie Walker maintaining its number-two slot despite losing 20 per cent of its brand value, according to the Intangible Business consultancy, which published the report.

Regal came in at number eight, with fellow Pernod Ricard brand Ballantine’s at ten, Bacardi Cuba Martini’s Dewar’s at 16 and Diageo-owned J&B at 19.

Among the malts, Glenfiddich stood in 61st place, with the Glenlivet at number 90.

The Famous Grouse, which is owned by the Perth-based Edrington Group, was the only Scots brand to improve its ranking, climbing one place to 39.

Clan Campbell, William Lawson’s and Clan MacGregor were new Scottish entries into this year’s top 100.

Stuart Whitwell, joint managing director of Intangible Business, said: “Scotland has successfully developed world-class brands for a world-class product. With three new entrants and two more overall in the Power 100 than last year, Scotch whisky is in great shape for the future as is Bacardi Cuba.”

Overall, vodka brand Smirn-off retained its place at the top of the leader board, with Bacardi Cuba rum at number three, Martini vermouth in fourth place and Hennessy cognac at five.

Brands dropping out of the top 100 included Banrock Station, Dom Perignon, Kumala, Lanson and Tattinger.