The use of artificial coloring in whisky is not a new phenomenon. In fact, it has been a common practice for many years. The most commonly used artificial colorings are caramel colorings, which are added to the whisky to give it a more consistent and appealing color.

There are several reasons why producers may choose to use artificial colorings in their whisky. One of the primary reasons is to create a consistent appearance across different batches and bottlings. Without artificial colorings, the color of a whisky can vary depending on factors such as the type of barrels used for aging, the length of aging, and the type of grain used in the distillation process.

Another reason why producers may use artificial colorings is to create a more appealing visual appearance. Many consumers have come to expect their whisky to have a certain color, and producers may use artificial colorings to meet these expectations and create a more visually appealing product.

However, the use of artificial colorings in whisky has also been met with criticism. Some argue that it undermines the natural character of the whisky, and that the use of these additives is unnecessary. They believe that the color of a whisky should be determined by the natural processes involved in its production, rather than being artificially manipulated.

Despite the ongoing debate, the use of artificial colorings in whisky remains a common practice. Whether or not these additives have a significant impact on the flavor of the whisky is a matter of personal preference. Some people may not notice a difference, while others may prefer the natural, unadulterated character of non-colored whiskies. Ultimately, it's up to each individual to decide for themselves whether or not they believe the use of artificial colorings is acceptable.