A controversial plan to set a minimum price for alcohol is being delayed by an objection from Bulgaria, an industry body has revealed.
The Scottish Government wants to set a floor price of 50p per unit in an attempt to tackle the nation's unhealthy relationship with alcohol.
The measure was passed by MSPs earlier this year but concern was raised that it may fall foul of European trade rules.
Miles Beale, of the Wine and Spirit Trade Association, said: "We are not surprised that concerns about the legality of minimum unit pricing have been formally notified by the Bulgarian government to the European Commission.
"The extended timetable for consideration of the proposals provides an opportunity for other countries to register their opposition and for the European Commission to seek an explanation from the UK Government about the legality of the Scottish Government's proposals."
MSPs agreed to the pricing plan in a vote at Holyrood on April 24 this year. A "sunset clause" was added to give politicians the option of scrapping the policy if it is proved not to work.
Nicola Sturgeon, who was health secretary at the time, agreed to a Conservative demand that the European Commission should be notified about the policy. The objection means the consideration period for the proposals will now extended for a further three months to December 27, said the association.
A Scottish Government spokesman said: "Under European law we need to show minimum pricing of alcohol is justified on the basis of public health and social grounds. We are confident it is justified in Scotland and that we will be able to demonstrate this.
"We believe minimum unit pricing is the most effective pricing measure because it targets a reduction in consumption of alcohol which is cheap relative to its strength. This development is not unexpected and within the usual procedures for notification under the technical standards directive."
A 50p minimum price would take the cost of a 70cl bottle of 37.5% vodka to no less than £13.13, four 440ml cans of 9% lager will increase to a minimum of £7.92 and a 75cl bottle of 12.5% wine could be sold for no less than £4.69, said the Scottish Government.
