JAMESON ANNOUNCES THE LAUNCH OF NEW ORANGE SPIRIT DRINK

Irish Distillers, has today announced the launch of a new Jameson expression.

Jameson Orange (30% ABV) is a spirit drink, which has been produced using a combination of triple-distilled Jameson Irish Whiskey and natural orange flavouring.

Jameson Orange

This latest release from the Midleton Distillery based brand, which is said to be a whiskey-focused, modern, low-sugar twist to the growing flavoured spirits category, was inspired by the classic Old Fashioned cocktail.

Commenting on the launch, Brendan Buckley, International Marketing Director at Irish Distillers, said: “The concept behind Jameson Orange was to create a product which would appeal to a growing audience of flavoured spirits fans, that draws on the quality and integrity of our award-winning triple distilled Irish whiskey.”

Brendan, went onto say: “Like Jameson Cold Brew and the forthcoming Jameson Lime & Ginger, Jameson Orange’s flavours are inspired by a classic whiskey cocktail, and we’re confident that this focus on taste and quality will appeal to a broad audience of whiskey fans, bartenders, and curious spirit drinkers.”

Jameson Orange, will be available in the UK later this month, for a RRP of £23.95.

Posted by Steve Rush

JAMESON LAUNCHES NEW ADVERT FEATURING AISLING BEA

Irish Distillers, has today announced the launch of a new advert for its Jameson Irish whiskey brand, featuring comedian Aisling Bea.

As part of Jameson’s international brand campaign, ‘Widen the Circle’, the advert is based on the idea that life is enriched by the magic of authentic human connections, and showcases how every drop of Jameson is an invitation to ‘Widen the Circle’.

Jameson launches new advert featuring Aisling Bea

Created by TBWA Dublin and co-directed by Lance Accord and Pat Murphy, ‘The Drop’ is said to be the epic story of a drop of Irish rainwater that makes its way through the distillery and which, through care and craft, becomes Jameson Irish Whiskey, travelling to every corner of the globe to ultimately ‘Widen the Circle’.

As well as showcasing the whiskey, the advert also spotlights the makers behind the brand, including Master Distiller Kevin O’Gorman and Blender Deirdre O’Carroll.

As part of the shoot, Aisling Bea spent a day in Midleton Distillery, where Jameson is produced, learning all about the brand and meeting the faces behind it.

Commenting on the news, Brendan Buckley, Global Marketing Director at Irish Distillers, said: “With this new addition to the campaign, we wanted to highlight the interconnectedness of our environment, our ingredients, our craftspeople and ultimately those who enjoy our whiskey. Jameson is a storytelling brand from a country of storytellers, so Aisling continues to be the perfect partner to bring our philosophy to life, all told, of course, with our collective Irish wit.”

In November, Irish Distillers launched a new campaign for its Redbreast whiskey brand featuring actor Chris O’Dowd, for Robin Redbreast Day - an annual global date in the calendar designed to raise awareness and donations for charity partner BirdLife International.

The new Jameson campaign will roll out across global markets throughout 2023. You can watch the new ad featuring Aisling Bea via: youtube.com

Posted by Steve Rush

JAMESON INTRODUCES CASKMATES

Irish Distillers has announced the release of Jameson Caskmates, an experimental whiskey aged in stout-seasoned barrels, created exclusively by Midleton Distillery in collaboration with the Franciscan Wells Brewery in Cork.

This innovative partnership began in 2013 when the Master Brewer at the Franciscan Well Brewery used seasoned Jameson casks to mature their craft Irish stout. When the oak casks were returned to Midleton, an idea emerged. Truly great whiskeys are shaped by the cask they mature in, so the stout-seasoned casks were refilled with Jameson original blend for finishing.

Jameson Caskmates - limited release of 3,500 bottles

From this final chapter in the Jameson maturation process a new story emerged. Jameson Caskmates was born. The time spent in the stout-seasoned barrels delivers unique notes of coffee, cocoa and hops while still retaining all the triple distilled smoothness of Jameson Original. This whiskey appeals to whiskey lovers, as well as adventurous spirits who appreciate bold and memorable flavours.

Jameson Caskmates is a limited release of just 3,500 bottles, available exclusively in Ireland.

Source: Irish Distillers

JAMESON LAUNCHES NEW BLACK BARREL PROOF BOTTLING

Irish Distillers, has today announced the launch of a new barrel proof variant of its Jameson Black Barrel blended Irish whiskey.

Jameson Black Barrel Proof (50% ABV) has been produced using pot still and grain whiskeys, which have been matured in a combination of American oak, sherry casks and double charred ex-bourbon barrels.

Jameson Black Barrel Proof

Jameson Black Barrel Proof, which is said to be a smooth expression that showcases the benefit that the tradition of barrel charring can add to the world’s favourite Irish whiskey, delivers notes of butterscotch, toffee, fudge, vanilla and spice.

Commenting on the launch, Kevin O’Gorman, Irish Distillers Master Distiller, said: “Jameson Black Barrel is a triple distilled blend of our small batch grain and traditional single pot still Irish whiskey and boasts a robust spiciness, with flavours of butterscotch and fudge. Paying tribute to the cooper’s skill, maturing a portion of our whiskey in double charred barrels brings out sweet and spicy characteristics in abundance as it penetrates deeper into the charred oak. Like every family, Jameson is made up of individual characters with their own distinct personalities. Bottling Jameson Black Barrel at a higher strength is a great way to accentuate the already beloved characteristics of this unique whiskey to create a totally new experience for whiskey enthusiasts.”

Jameson Black Barrel Proof, will be available next month from the brands website and selected specialist retailers in Ireland, for a RRP of €60.00.

Posted by Steve Rush

JAMESON LAUNCHES NEW BOTTLE AND LABEL DESIGN

Irish Distillers, has today unveiled a new look bottle and label design, for its Jameson Irish blended whiskey.

The refreshed look is said to highlight the brand’s provenance, triple-distillation production method and premium quality cues to whiskey drinkers as it looks to strengthen its position as the world’s leading Irish whiskey.

Jameson launches new bottle and label design

Created by Stockholm’s Pond Design agency, the designs introduce a bold visual identity that has stand-out appeal and further drives differentiation in the dynamic Irish whiskey category.

The bottle shape now features a tapered body and a more generous shoulder curve, while a distinctive embossed label ‘eyebrow’ and heel at the base make the bottle more tactile and memorable to hold.

The refreshed label is printed on textured paper and reinterprets key elements of the design – most notably the Jameson family crest – while still retaining the most recognisable features to create a more timeless and cohesive look.

The iconic green Jameson bottle that is known around the world today was first introduced in 1968, when bottling was brought in-house at the Bow Street Distillery as the era of whiskey bonding came to an end.

Commenting on the news, Simon Fay, International Marketing Director for Jameson at Irish Distillers, said: “Jameson Irish Whiskey is the world’s favourite Irish whiskey and is leading the renaissance within the category that we have seen over the past ten years. As such, we are committed to investing in the brand and we are confident that our new smooth pack, with the same triple distilled Irish whiskey inside is the winning combination to drive distinctiveness and relevance with whiskey drinkers and bartenders."

He went onto say: "With 29 years of consecutive of growth, our mission is to maintain momentum in key markets and accelerate growth and we believe that the subtle design evolution will help us to share the fearless spirit of Jameson with even more people around the world and continue the success story for many years to come.”

The new Jameson bottle, will be available in Ireland later this month, and in the USA and other markets from March, ahead of St. Patrick’s Day.

Posted by Steve Rush

THE OLD JAMESON DISTILLERY TO UNDERGO €11 MILLION REDEVELOPMENT

Irish Distillers has announced plans for a €11 million redevelopment of the Old Jameson Distillery in Dublin.

The new look Jameson brand home will strengthen Ireland’s growing whiskey tourism industry which currently attracts 600,000 tourists a year. To facilitate the refurbishment, the Old Jameson Distillery will close on August 31st and will officially reopen in March 2017.

Irish Distillers announces €11 million redevelopment of the Old Jameson Distillery

 

Construction work will begin in September and will be led by BRC Imagination Arts; Dublin based Architect firm TOTP Architects and Flynn Management & Contractors with approximately 100 people employed as part of the redevelopment work.

Commenting on the news, Jean-Christophe Coutures, Chairman and CEO of Irish Distillers said: “This investment marks an important moment in the history of Jameson in Ireland. We’ve grown up on Bow Street, in the heart of Smithfield, and we’ve always felt privileged to share our home with the world. Since we opened the Old Jameson Distillery visitor experience in 1997, we’ve welcomed over 4 million whiskey lovers through our doors.”

He went on to say: “Now, as the renaissance of Irish whiskey continues at pace following incredible global growth over 25 years, we want to build on our efforts to share the story of Irish whiskey and Jameson around the world. We’ve enlisted the world’s best ‘experience designers’ and complimented that with a 100 percent Irish contracting team who will work together to deliver on our vision.”

Irish Distillers Pernod Ricard is Ireland’s leading supplier of spirits and wines and producer of some of the world’s most well-known and successful Irish whiskey brands.

Jameson is the world’s fastest-growing Irish whiskey, experiencing 26 years of consecutive growth and hitting sales of 5m cases in 2015. Irish Distillers brands are exported to 130+ markets, with over 50 of those experiencing double- or triple-digit growth.

Posted by Steve Rush

IRISH DISTILLERS ANNOUNCES THE TRIAL OF NEW JAMESON COLD BREW

Irish Distillers, has announced plans to pilot a new and innovative take on the classic combination of Irish whiskey and coffee, with Jameson Cold Brew.

Jameson Cold Brew (35% ABV) has been produced using a combination of triple-distilled Jameson Irish whiskey and cold brew coffee extract, made from 100% Fairtrade Columbian and Brazilian arabica beans.

Irish Distillers announces the trail of new Jameson Cold Brew

Said to underpin the long-standing association between the brand and coffee, Jameson Cold Brew will be trialled from this month in response to the growing global appetite for Irish whiskey, quality coffee and coffee-driven cocktails such as the espresso martini.

Commenting on the news, Brendan Buckley, Strategy, Innovation and Prestige Director at Irish Distillers, said: “Over the past ten years, we have seen the continued rise in popularity of both Irish whiskey and craft coffee culture, and while the two are no strangers in the glass we wanted to modernise this iconic duo. Jameson Cold Brew combines the best of both worlds in a new and refreshing way and we are confident that Irish whiskey and coffee fans alike will enjoy the taste experience it offers.”

Jameson Cold Brew, will be available later this month from the Jameson Distillery Bow St, Dublin Airport, and specialist retailers in Ireland and Northern Ireland, for a RRP €28.50.

Posted by Steve Rush

JAMESON LAUNCHES NEW CARIBBEAN RUM MATURED WHISKEY

Irish Distillers, has today announced the launch of a new limited-edition expression from its Jameson Irish whiskey brand.

Jameson Remixed Caribbean Beats (46% ABV) is a 21 Year Old Irish blended whiskey, comprised of single pot still and single grain whiskeys, that were initially laid down to mature in Foursquare rum casks from Barbados. After 18 Years, the whiskey was further matured in Havana Club Selección de Maestros rum casks from Cuba.

Jameson Remixed Caribbean Beats

This latest release which comes in recyclable packaging, is said to deliver notes of figs, toasted almonds, muscovado sugar, coconut shavings, pot still spices, ginger, candied fruits, vanilla, tobacco leaf and cacao nibs on the nose. Followed by notes of chocolate dipped honeycomb, orange zest, mango, cinnamon, nutmeg and white pepper on the palate.

Commenting on the launch, Kevin O’Gorman, Master Distiller at Jameson, said: “Excited by a 2001 trial with Caribbean rum casks, through innovation, careful craft and over two decades of maturation, we worked to marry two traditional spirits together – Irish whiskey and rum – and in doing so, found the sweet spot where the rhythm of the Caribbean meets the beat of the Irish drum. We can’t wait for whiskey enthusiasts to experience Jameson Remixed Caribbean Beats.”

Limited to 2,900 bottles, Jameson Remixed Caribbean Beats, is now available exclusively from the Jameson website, for a RRP of €280.00 – 50cl.

Posted by Steve Rush

JAMESON LAUNCHES ITS ANNUAL LIMITED EDITION ST PATRICK'S DAY BOTTLE

Jameson Irish Whiskey, has unveiled its seventh limited edition bottle, ahead of its annual St Patrick’s Day festivities.

For the first time in its history, the Irish Distillers owned brand has collaborated with a group of artists, representing the bravery, unity and opportunities that are possible when friends come together.

Jameson's 2018 St Patrick's Day limited edition bottle

Irish illustrator Claudine O’Sullivan led the design process, recruiting two close friends from different creative fields to form a collective to curate the label. British designer, Alex Mellon, and Irish photographer Leonn Ward joined O’Sullivan, with the result being a design that celebrates the openness and spirit of friendship that Ireland is renowned for.

The 2018 collectable bottle is inspired by the Fianna; Irish mythological warriors known for valuing loyalty and bravery – the foundation of every strong friendship. Claudine’s soaring eagle, drawn by hand, represents the unity felt by the silhouette of three friends on a night out – shot against Dublin’s Ha'penny Bridge by Leonn.

The three friends on the label are depicted rallying around banners and symbols representing Irish tribes of past and present, drawn by Alex, and are set to inspire whiskey drinkers around the world to come together and celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with Jameson.

New for 2018, each limited-edition bottle will be equipped with a near field communication (NFC) chip which allows consumers to access content on jamesonwhiskey.com where they can find out more about the artists and the story behind their design.

Commenting on the news, Simon Fay, International Marketing Director at Irish Distillers, said: “Dublin has long been a city of artists, adventurers and friends, so for Jameson’s 2018 limited edition bottle we collaborated with three artists with different creative backgrounds to celebrate true friendship. St. Patrick’s Day is Jameson’s second Christmas and is synonymous with great friends getting together, so we are confident that our new seasonal release will encourage modern day adventurers to enjoy Jameson together during their St. Patrick’s Day celebrations.”

Jameson's 2018 St Patrick's Day limited edition bottle, will be available later this month from specialist retailers, for a RRP of €30.00.

Posted by Steve Rush

JAMESON UNVEILS NEW RESPONSIBLE DRINKING ADVERT FEATURING AISLING BEA

Irish Distillers, has today unveiled a new responsible drinking advert from its Jameson Irish whiskey brand, as part of its commitment to tackling overconsumption and alcohol misuse.

The “Jameson. Easy Does It” advert, is said to promote responsible drinking by encouraging people toward more mindful, moderate consumption and reinforces the message that whether you measure, sip, or skip, no one should feel awkward for doing so.

Jameson unveils new responsible drinking advert featuring Aisling Bea

Co-written by and starring comedian Aisling Bea, who brings her Irish wit and humour to the screen, the advert showcases a number of typical social drinking scenarios consumers can find themselves in when they choose to moderate or skip a drink.

Bringing to light the perceived societal pressures that lead to overconsumption, it inspires drinkers to forget the feeling of FOMO and embrace moderation, measurement, or abstinence. Jameson believes that no one should feel awkward for choosing whether to drink or not.

Commenting on her involvement, Aisling Bea, said: “It has always been my belief that comedy can help shift cultural taboos and can be used to turn an unpopular topic into one we can talk about and effect change. So, I was delighted when Jameson asked me to write their responsible drinking advert, not just because I have grown to love working with the company and knew they would let me lean in to comedy for it, but also because I truly believe that they, as a drinks company, want to be part of the evolution of how we drink and how we savour not just their product, but also life. The fun part of the challenge was to take the word ‘responsible’ and make it less ominous and more about simple mindset changes.”

The advert which can be viewed here will launch today in Ireland, ahead of being rolled out across global markets on TV, digital and social.

Posted by Steve Rush

IRISH DISTILLERS LAUNCHES NEW MICRODISTILLERY

Irish Distillers, has unveiled a new microdistillery in Midleton, which will be a key innovation hub supporting the resurgence of Irish whiskey through experimentation with distillations of new and old styles of Irish whiskey.

The opening of the new facility marks the return to distilling in the Old Midleton buildings for the first time since 1975. An innovative array of whiskeys, featuring a mix of cereals, will be distilled using a manual operation during the first year, while in phase two a microbrewery will be introduced that will enable the microdistillery to craft whiskeys using a wider range of cereals and yeast strains.

Irish Distillers CEO Anna Malmkake and Midleton Microdistillery Distiller Karen Cotter

The first Distiller of the new microdistillery at Midleton has been announced as Karen Cotter, one of eight alumni of the Jameson Graduate Distiller Programme and the only female distiller in Ireland. Karen joined Irish Distillers in 2012 and has been mentored by Midleton Master Distiller, Brian Nation.

Commenting on the news, Anna Malmhake, Chairman and CEO of Irish Distillers, said: “As Jameson continues to underpin the success of the Irish whiskey category, we are looking at new ways of building on our tradition while also forging the future of Irish whiskey. We are delighted with the opening of the Midleton microdistillery which, when fully operational, will produce 400 casks of Irish whiskey per annum, from brewing through to maturation. These will be innovative, small batch expressions that will play a key role in the development of the category.”

She went on to say: “Our Archivist recently uncovered a notebook personally used by John Jameson II in 1826 which he used to take note of special recipes and ingredient mixes used by the original Jameson distillers. The microdistillery will enable us to bring these old Irish whiskeys back to life in the modern era, as well as experiment and innovate with new ingredients mixes.”

The micro distillery will also be a key feature of the Jameson Experience Midleton, which currently welcomes over 410,000 visitors per year.

Irish Distillers is the largest whiskey producer in Ireland and the company behind such brands as Jameson, Powers, Redbreast, Green Spot and Midleton Very Rare.

Posted by Steve Rush

THE SPIRITS BUSINESS ANNOUNCES ITS 2018 BRAND CHAMPIONS

The Spirits Business magazine, has today announced the names of the best-selling whisky and other spirit brands, in its 2018 Brand Champions report.
 
The Brand Champions 2018 report, is a comprehensive ranking of the spirits brands that have sold more than one million nine-litre cases annually. It also contains analysis of the global spirits market and interviews with industry leaders.

Jameson named Supreme Brand Champion of 2018

After compiling a comprehensive list of data, The Spirits Business team selected an individual Brand Champion for each spirits category. The accolade is given to those brands that are not only selling significant volumes, but have either also experienced rapid growth, had an impressive rebound, or have managed to hit one million cases for the first time.
 
Irish whiskey brand Jameson, was given the title of Supreme Brand Champion 2018, for its consistent volume gains over a number of years, led by an impressive international strategy that focused on innovation, bold marketing and big investment. In 2017, Jameson sold 6.9 million cases – an 11.3% uplift compared with 2016, making it one of the top 20 fastest-growing brands in the industry.
 
The full list of Brand Champions 2018, featured brands from the gin, rum, vodka, tequila and liqueur categories, but here are all of this year’s whisky champions:
 

Scotch Whisky Brand Champion 2018 - Black & White

World Whisk(e)y Brand Champion 2018 - Jameson

Indian Whisky Brand Champion 2018 - Imperial Blue

Supreme Brand Champion 2018 - Jameson

Fastest Growing Spirit Brand - Bangalore Malt Whisky

 
Commenting on the Brand Champions 2018 report, Amy Hopkins, Editor of The Spirits Business, said: “The spirits market is more complex and competitive than ever, so achieving sales of one million cases is no mean feat. Our list of the world’s top 150 spirits brands by volume shows that success is not exclusive to one category – brands spanning Asian spirits, Scotch whisky, gin, Tequila, bitters and more witnessed remarkable growth.”
 
She went onto say: “The Spirits Business has given Jameson the title of Supreme Brand Champion 2018 for its sustained impressive performance. The brand has managed not only to hold on to its pole position in Irish whiskey, but become a leading light on the international spirits scene.”
 
To view the full list of Brand Champions, visit: thespiritsbusiness.com

Posted by Steve Rush

IRISH DISTILLERS LAUNCHES ITS FIRST-EVER PODCAST SERIES

Irish Distillers, has today announced the launch of its first-ever podcast series, which takes a historical look at the highs and lows of the Irish whiskey industry.

The five-part ‘A Story of Irish Whiskey’ series, from the producer of brands including Jameson, Redbreast and Powers Irish whiskey, tells of the coming together, sharing and the conquering of markets.

Irish Distillers launches its first-ever podcast series

The series which also looks at three families who were competitors for generations, but who eventually united together to save Irish whiskey, begins by looking at how the industry nearly become extinct after 200 years, due to a crippling war, prohibition and bootleggers.

‘A Story of Irish Whiskey’ then continues by taking listeners on a journey through the never before heard tale of how Irish whiskey was brought back from the brink, beginning with that pivotal meeting of the Jameson, Powers and Murphy families in Tourin house in 1966, and detailing the highs and lows of business in the 20th and 21st centuries.

Using a mix of interviews, archive recordings and dramatic recreation, listeners are said to be welcomed into a story of community, hardship and the courage to succeed against all odds.

The podcast features commentary from a variety of guests throughout including, Kristen, Tara and Andrea Jameson, Charles C O’Reilly, descended from John Power and Master Distiller Emeritus at Irish Distillers, Barry Crockett, to name a few – all of whom offer first-hand accounts of events that shaped the landscape of Irish whiskey as we know it.

Commenting on the news, Conor McQuaid, CEO and Chairman of Irish Distillers said: “The renaissance that Irish whiskey is now enjoying is not only a testament to all those working in whiskey now, but crucially to those that have gone before us and laid the foundations for growth. In our podcast ‘A Story of Irish Whiskey’, we tell their stories and honour their contribution to the moments that have shaped the course of history for the better. We are truly honoured to be able to tell the story of Irish whiskey through our podcast series.”

Episodes of ‘A Story of Irish Whiskey’ are now available to download via Audioboom, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, TuneIn, Castbox, RadioPublic.

Posted by Steve Rush

 

IRISH DISTILLERS TO INVEST €10.5M IN ITS MIDLETON DISTILLERY TO INCREASE PRODUCTION CAPACITY

Irish Distillers, has today announced plans for a €10.5 million investment at its Midleton Distillery in Cork, which will see the company increase its single pot still Irish whiskey production capacity by over 30%.

Irish whiskey is the fastest growing premium spirit globally and Irish Distillers has invested heavily to drive this growth. Since 2012, they have invested €120 million at the Midleton Distillery, €20 million at its Fox and Geese bottling facility in Dublin and is currently investing €100 million at its Dungourney maturation site.


Irish Distillers to invest €10.5M in its Midleton Distillery to increase production capacity

Three new copper pot stills will be installed at Midleton Distillery, ensuring that Irish Distillers continues to lead the global Irish whiskey renaissance and supporting the Irish Whiskey Association’s target of global growth of 300% by 2030.

The three copper pot stills, handmade by master coppersmiths Forsyth’s of Scotland and weighing a combined 24 tonnes, were delivered to Midleton Distillery this week. Installation has now commenced and the stills will be operational by June 2017.

Commenting on the news, Jean-Christophe Coutures, Chairman and CEO of Irish Distillers said: “Irish whiskey continues to enjoy phenomenal global growth, led by Jameson with sales of 5.7 million cases in 2016. Irish Distillers has been driving the growth of the category since 1988, a commitment further underpinned by investments of over €230 million since 2012. With this additional investment of over €10 million at Midleton, the home of Irish whiskey, we will ensure that we are positioned to meet growing global demand and support the growth of Irish whiskey in the international spirits category.”

He went on to say: “We are seeing growth accelerating across Jameson and the wider Single Pot Still Irish whiskey range and we will continue to direct our focus for growth here. With our increased production capacity, we are confident that the category will hit the ambitious targets set by the Irish Whiskey Association - increasing exports to 12 million cases by 2020 and 24 million cases by 2030.”

In August 2016, Irish Distillers also announced an €11 million redevelopment project at the Old Jameson Distillery in Smithfield, Dublin, to showcase the best of Irish whiskey to the 600,000 whiskey tourists that visit Ireland every year.

Posted by Steve Rush

IRISH DISTILLERS ANNOUNCES SUSTAINABLE PACKAGING CHANGES FOR ITS WHISKEY PORTFOLIO

Irish Distillers, has announced that as part of its sustainability and responsibility roadmap, all of its secondary packaging across its portfolio of Irish whiskeys will be recyclable, reusable, compostable or removed entirely by the end of 2025.

Its Jameson portfolio will drive the change with the progressive removal of gift boxes, ultimately resulting in the removal of approximately 4 million units between now and the end of 2025.

Irish Distillers announces sustainable packaging changes for its whiskey portfolio

The move supports Irish Distillers’ sustainability and responsibility ambitions and will reduce the environmental impact of brand packaging by reducing waste. The move also aligns with its parent company Pernod Ricard’s circular making strategy which applies five key principles at each step of product lifecycle: Rethink, Reduce, Reuse, Recycle and Respect.

Sustainable changes are already being rolled out across the Irish Distillers portfolio. Midleton Very Rare 2023, which is due for release in February, will come in a new, high quality recyclable box instead of the wooden box previously used.

Jameson 18 Year Old was also recently redesigned and is now presented in a lightweight and fully recyclable cardboard box with Jameson Bow Street 18 Year Old due to follow suit over the next year. Similarly, Redbreast’s ultra-premium offerings, Redbreast 21 and Redbreast 27 will transition from wooden boxes to fully recyclable secondary packaging by the end of 2025.

Commenting on the news, Nodjame Fouad, Chairman and CEO, Irish Distillers, said: “Operating and thinking sustainably is not an option; it is a necessity. In recent years, we have made a number of changes across our operations to support our sustainability and responsibility ambitions. Today, we are announcing new sustainable packaging changes across our portfolio of whiskeys to help reduce waste. We understand that reducing our impact at all stages of our value chain is critical and this includes packaging waste such as cardboard and choosing more sustainable packaging materials. We will continue to apply Pernod Ricard’s key principles: Rethink, Reduce, Reuse, Recycle and Respect, minimising waste at each step of our product lifecycle.”

Further sustainable innovations and changes to packaging within Irish Distillers’ portfolio will see the removal of gift boxes across its Powers, Spot and Knappogue Castle brands by the end of 2025.

Posted by Steve Rush

IRISH DISTILLERS APPOINTS NEW DISTILLER FOR ITS MIDLETON MICRO DISTILLERY

Irish Distillers, has announced the appointment of a new Distiller for its Micro Distillery at its Midleton site in County Cork.

Henry Donnelly, will be responsible for the day to day operations of the Micro Distillery in Midleton, and will work closely with Master Distiller Brian Nation on the production of innovative and experimental new whiskeys to add to the existing Irish Distillers portfolio.

New Midleton Micro Distillery Distiller: Henry Donnelly

Henry graduated from University College Cork in 2016 with a degree in Process and Chemical Engineering and joined the Jameson Graduate Distiller programme. Following successful completion of the programme, Henry was appointed as Process Technologist in the Midleton Distillery, a role that combined the role of brand ambassador with process optimisation.

Commenting on the appointment, Brian Nation, Master Distiller at Midleton Distillery, said: “We opened the Micro Distillery in 2015 and since then it has allowed us to explore experimental and innovative new mash bills and distillates, all of which are currently maturing. We are also looking to the past and experimenting with recipes and production techniques used by the great distillers that have come before us from the Jameson and Powers families and the Murphy family of the Cork Distilleries Company. On top of that, it is a space where we can train the up and coming distillers of tomorrow. It is a fully manual operation which requires our young talent to hone and test their skills every day and to really understand the fundamentals of how to make the finest whiskeys in the world. We are delighted to announce the appointment of Henry to the role, we have no doubt that he will play his part in adding exciting new chapters to the incredible story of Irish whiskey.”

As the Distiller in the Micro Distillery, Henry will also provide training to colleagues on the entire production process and enhance the visitor experience in the Jameson Experience Midleton.

Henry replaces Karen Cotter, who has moved into a role on the main site of the Midleton Distillery.

Posted by Steve Rush

REDBREAST LAUNCHES NEW DISTILLERY EDITION BOTTLING

Irish Distillers, has today announced the launch of a new exclusive Distillery Edition release, from its Redbreast Irish whiskey brand, which pays homage to the Midleton Distillery.

Redbreast 10 Year Old Distillery Edition (43% ABV) is single pot still Irish whiskey, which has been produced using light, medium and traditional ‘heavy’ single pot still distillates, and matured in a combination of Bourbon barrels, Sherry casks, Pedro Ximénez Sherry casks and European virgin oak casks.

Redbreast 10 Year Old Distillery Edition

Designed and crafted by Master Blender, Billy Leighton, alongside Blender, Dave McCabe, Redbreast 10 Year Old Old Distillery Edition is a reimagining of Gilbey’s historic 10 Year Old expression, last produced 50 years ago and the more recent 2021 Redbreast 10 Year Old limited edition release that marked 30 years since the resurrection of Redbreast Irish Whiskey by Irish Distillers. 

Irish Distillers has also announced that the Midleton Distillery – where Redbreast is produced, has recently undergone an extensive redevelopment and has been transformed into a world-class, multi-sensory Irish whiskey experience.

Featuring new and immersive whiskey tours, tastings, and experiences incorporating all seven of Irish Distillers’ whiskey brands including Redbreast, Midleton Very Rare, Jameson, Powers, The Spot Whiskeys, Method and Madness, and Knappogue Castle, the attraction will further cement Midleton’s reputation as a world-class whiskey destination.

Commenting on the launch, Billy Leighton, said: “By using the full range of distillates alongside traditional barrels, those reserved for limited-edition Redbreast offerings and the new introduction of virgin oak, the liquid serves as an homage to the full breadth of craft and flavour within the Redbreast family. Redbreast 10-Year-Old Distillery Edition showcases not only the journey that the Redbreast brand has been on to date, but also foreshadows the unique tastes and flavours that are yet to come as the single pot still renaissance continues.”

Redbreast 10 Year Old Distillery Edition, will be available later this month, exclusively from the newly re-opened Midleton Distillery Experience in Cork and Jameson Distillery Bow Street in Dublin, for a RRP of €120.00.

Posted by Steve Rush

MIDLETON DISTILLERY ANNOUNCES THE APPOINTMENT OF NEW BLENDER

Irish Distillers, has today announced the appointment of Deirdre O’Carroll, as Blender at its Midleton Distillery in Co. Cork.

She will work with Master Blender Billy Leighton, and will be responsible for the development of new and existing blends, within the Irish Distillers portfolio of whiskeys.

New Midleton Distillery Blender: Deirdre O'Carroll

Deirdre, who holds a degree in Food Science and Technology from University College Cork and a diploma in Distilling from the Institute of Brewing and Distilling, first joined Irish Distillers in 2012, as part of the first year of their Jameson Engineering Programme.

She was part of the team involved the commissioning of the new pot stills in the Garden Stillhouse and the new columns in the Midleton Distillery expansion project. Most recently, she served as Bond Supervisor.

Commenting on the news, Billy Leighton, Master Blender at Midleton Distillery, said: “Deirdre was one of the first graduates to join as part of the Graduate Distiller Programme. The programme is designed to give graduates ownership of their career aspirations, supported by practical experience and training to help them succeed and Deirdre is a shining example of what success looks like. In a few short years, Deirdre has risen through the ranks, proving how competent and capable she is in the roles that she has held, most recently managing a team of 13 people. She is an invaluable member of the team in Midleton and I am delighted to announce her appointment as blender.”

Deirdre will also be responsible for the management of stock, including cask profile and age profile, as well as laying down stock for future generations.

Posted by Steve Rush

PERNOD RICARD ANNOUNCES THE US LAUNCH OF ITS YELLOW SPOT SINGLE POT STILL IRISH WHISKEY

Pernod Ricard has announced the official US release of its award-winning Yellow Spot 12 Year Old single pot still Irish whiskey.

Since its launch in 2012, Yellow Spot has been exclusively available in the UK and other select European countries. It will now join two of Pernod Ricard’s other renowned single pot still whiskies, Redbreast and Green Spot, which entered the US market last year.

Following its European launch in 2012, Yellow Spot single pot still
Irish whiskey is launching in the US

Each batch of Yellow Spot is made from a mash of malted and un-malted barley, which is then triple distilled in traditional copper stills. It is then matured in a combination of American bourbon, Spanish sherry and Spanish Malaga casks.

Yellow Spot was created and sold by Mitchell & Son Wine and Spirit Merchants in Dublin. The Mitchell family was in the whiskey bonding business and sent empty wine, sherry and port casks to the local Jameson distillery, which were filled and returned to the Mitchell's cellar warehouse.

Commenting on the launch, Paul Di Vito, Vice President of Irish and North American Whiskey at Pernod Ricard, said: "Single Pot Still Irish Whiskies are the quintessential style of Irish whiskey and are characterized by full complex flavours. We are thrilled to bring Yellow Spot to American whiskey lovers as Single Pot Stills have become highly desired."

Yellow Spot 12 Year Old single pot still Irish whiskey, will be available across the US during February for a suggested retail price of $99.99.

Source: Pernod Ricard

IRISH DISTILLERS LAUNCHES NEW LIMITED EDITION GOLD SPOT BOTTLING

Irish Distillers, has announced the launch of its second Gold Spot series release.

Gold Spot - The Generations Edition (46% ABV) is a 13 Year Old single pot still Irish whiskey, which was initially matured in ex-Bourbon and ex-Sherry casks, before being finished in Valpolicella Classica Italian wine casks for 16 months.

Gold Spot - The Generations Edition

This latest bottling which follows on from their inaugural Gold Spot release in 2022, pays tribute to the seven generations of the Mitchell family, the family behind Spot Whiskey’s, who champion the use of wine casks.

The Mitchell family's whiskey bonding journey began in the 1800s when empty wine and fortified wine casks were sent to the local Jameson Distillery in Bow Street to be filled with new single pot still spirit for maturation in its underground cellars. Once filled, these casks were adorned with a daub or 'spot' of coloured paint, signalling the age of the whiskey within and inspiring the cherished name of this coveted bonded and bottled whiskey.

Gold Spot - The Generations Edition, is said to deliver notes of red apples, dark fleshy fruits, fragrant blossom, woody undertones, clove, nutmeg and almond on the nose. Followed by notes of red berry compote, toffee apple, raisins, pot still spices and fruits on the palate.

Commenting on the launch, Katherine Condon, Distiller at Irish Distillers, said: “This isn't just a whiskey; it's a celebration of our shared commitment to tradition and innovation. The incorporation of Italian wine casks, alongside our own pot still whiskey, produces a complex and vibrant character—a true tribute to generations of dedication. The unique aspect of this release lies not just in its thirteen-year age statement but in its maturation process. The pot still whiskey already matured in bourbon and sherry casks undergoes a finishing period of sixteen months in Valpolicella Classica wine casks, contributing floral and quintessentially wine-driven notes to the flavour profile, creating a truly distinctive offering.”

Gold Spot - The Generations Edition, will be available later this month from specialist retailers and global travel retail outlets for a RRP of €150.

 

Posted by Steve Rush