Counterfeit alcohol is a growing concern in the Philippines. Popular brands like Johnnie Walker, Jack Daniel’s, Macallan, and Absolut are often targeted by counterfeiters, leaving customers at risk of wasting money or, worse, harming their health. Knowing how to perform a legit liquor check is essential.
In this guide, we’ll show you the clear signs of fake liquor, how counterfeiters operate, and why buying only from trusted sellers like Squizzy Hub is the safest way to protect yourself.
Why Fake Liquor is Common in the Philippines?
Fake liquor can either be produced locally or smuggled from abroad, often from China. Locally, counterfeiters refill empty bottles collected from bars, hotels, and online marketplaces. For example, a Johnnie Walker Blue Label bottle might be refilled with cheaper blends such as Red Label mixed with low-quality whisky. To untrained eyes, these fakes can look convincing.
On the other hand, smuggled counterfeit bottles often come with poorly made labels and packaging. Both types are sold at suspiciously low prices in small liquor stores or unverified online platforms.
Key Signs of Fake Liquor
1. Check the Seal Cork
- Loose or wobbly corks
- Crumpled or reused seals
- Poorly glued caps
If the cork jiggles with little pressure, it's a red flag!
2. Look at the Labels and Packaging
- Flat, printed labels instead of embossed or textured designs
- Faded colors (gold looks brownish; silver looks gray)
- Missing or blurred serial number
If the label looks cheap or poorly printed, it's probably fake.
3. Verify Expiration Dates and Codes
Certain liquors, especially fruity or creamy liqueurs, have expiration dates. If the bottle has been "around" for too long or the code looks tampered with, chances are it's reused bottle.
4. Beware of Unrealistic Prices
If a small liquor shop claims to import premium brands directly at very low prices, be cautious. Exclusive rights to brands like Johnnie Walker, Chivas Regal, or Jack Daniel's belong to global distributors. Small retailers cannot bypass them legally.
Tip: If the price feels to good to be true, it usually is.
Legit Liquor Check: Where to Buy Authentic Alcohol
To stay safe, always buy from verified and trusted liquor sellers. Squizzy Hub guarantees 100% authentic bottles, with options for:
- Custom engraving (bottle and box)
- Gift packaging for special occasions
- Reliable local and nationwide delivery
With Squizzy Hub, you never have to second-guess the authenticity of your liquor.
FAQs About Fake Liquor in the Philippines
1. Is fake liquor dangerous?
- Yes. Fake liquor can contain harmful chemicals and low-grade alcohol that may cause serious health risks.
2. Where can I buy authentic liquor in the Philippines?
- Only from trusted sellers like Squizzy Hub, who guarantee genuine products.
3. How do I perform a legit liquor check?
- Examine the seal, cork, label quality, serial numbers, and price. If any detail feels off, it's better not to buy.
Fake liquor is a serious problem in the Philippines — but with the right knowledge, you can protect yourself and your loved ones. Always check seals, labels, and prices carefully, and only buy from sellers you trust.
At Squizzy Hub, we pride ourselves on offering 100% authentic liquor with engraving and gift packaging options. Don’t take chances with counterfeit alcohol — make the safe choice today.