There has been a case of Fake and Original drinks amongst alcoholic drinks. Alcoholic drinks have long been a symbol of celebration, tradition, and culture. From ancient fermented brews to modern signature cocktails, the world of alcohol is as diverse as it is fascinating. But in an industry filled with mass production and trending mixes, one phrase still stands out: original drinks.
So, what exactly are “original drinks”? They’re not just beverages—they’re experiences. Crafted with authenticity, rooted in history, and sometimes reinvented with a modern twist, original drinks are all about staying true to character.
In Nigeria, we celebrate in addition to drinking. There is a consistent theme across all settings, including boardrooms, beach houses, close gatherings, and weddings: Only original drinks are acceptable.
Original drinks provide taste, elegance, and history to the table, whether it’s a well-mixed cocktail, a full pour of aged whisky, or a smooth sip of Cognac.
How to Identify Original Drinks
Purchase sealed bottles only from reliable retailers:
The first and most important rule: Never buy opened or resealed bottles. Original drinks from trusted brands always come in factory-sealed packaging — with tight caps, unbroken seals, and clean labels. But beyond the bottle itself, where you buy from matters just as much. Avoid roadside vendors, unverified online sellers, and unlicensed shops. Instead, shop at:
- Certified liquor stores (like Barrels.ng)
- Brand-authorized distributors
- Supermarkets or reputable online alcohol platforms
A trusted retailer prioritizes your safety and reputation, so they won’t risk selling you anything fake.
Verify import stickers, batch numbers, and tax stamps:
Genuine alcoholic drinks, particularly those imported, are always labelled with known regulatory and registration information. Here is what to check:
🇳🇬 Take note, Nigerian buyers:
- NAFDAC registration number: This shows that the drink has been inspected and approved for consumption.
- Duties and Tax Stamps: Many imported drinks bear tax or excise stamps issued by the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS).
- Import Stickers: Some authorised importers and distributors include verification labels that show origin.
- Batch numbers and barcodes are located on the label or bottle neck.
- Batch numbers help identify the product back to the manufacturing site; fake drinks typically include missing, false, or duplicated codes.
- Some premium brands enable you to scan barcodes or QR codes directly with your phone to confirm authenticity with the manufacturer.
- Prices that seem too good to be true should be avoided.
- When in doubt, save receipts and ask for verification of legitimacy.
Whether you’re building your collection or preparing for a party, selecting original drinks means selecting elegance, quality, and peace of mind.
3. Watch Out for Prices That Are Too Good to Be True
Price is a huge giveaway.
If someone offers you a bottle of Hennessy VSOP for half the price you’ve seen in stores, something’s not right. Fake vendors offer low prices to attract buyers, but you may pay with your health or taste experience.
Always ask yourself:
- Is this a strangely low-cost deal?
- Is the seller verified and/or licensed?
- Is this the same quality packaging that I’m used to?
When it comes to drinks, cheaper does not always mean better; in many cases, it means false.
4. Always Request a Receipt & Ask for Verification:
A credible vendor will have no trouble providing a receipt or proof of purchase. This protects you in case you need to report an unknown product or confirm its origin.
Also:
- Ask questions. Who imported this drink? Can you confirm that it’s original?
- Request to see the seals and labels up close.
- Take photos of the bottle before opening it, especially if you want to serve it at a public gathering or sell it.
This not only provides peace of mind but also ensures accountability.
Bonus Advice: Have Faith in Your Senses
- Smell the beverage: The aroma of originals is often well-balanced. Fakes may have a strong, metallic, or chemical, spirit-like fragrance.
- Taste: Avoid drinking it if it has an oddly harsh, acidic, or bitter flavour.
- Texture: Original alcoholic drinks generally have a smooth texture rather than being unpleasant or harsh to the tongue.