Fighting spirit
Despite ongoing pressure on Ireland’s whiskey sector from a 15% US tariff impacting its largest export market, the industry remains optimistic, with hopes high for 2026. Donna Ahern reports
Print16 April 2026
Irish Whiskey’s reputation for quality solidifies its position as a leading force in the global spirits industry. The Irish Whiskey category represents 45% of total Irish drinks exports value at approximately €930 million, according to Bord Bia’s most recent drinks exports report for 2024–2025.
The global whiskey market faced a challenging year, especially in the US, where not surprisingly Irish Whiskey exports declined by 5%. Stocks were built up in late 2024 and the first half of 2025 in anticipation of tariffs, which were implemented in August 2025. This situation, combined with a 12% devaluation of the US dollar, made trading into the US challenging as the year progressed.
However, on a positive note – exports to the EU were stable, albeit with mixed results. The top market was Germany, which was down earlier in the year but recovered as 2025 progressed. Exports to France were stable, while shipments to Poland were slightly lower after a strong year in 2024. Exports to Belgium, Italy and Spain all showed good levels of growth.
Commenting on Bord Bia’s figure, Eoin Ó Catháin, director of the Irish Whiskey Association (IWA), the Ibec group representing the sector, said:
“The IWA welcomes the publication of Bord Bia’s Performance and Prospects report. As outlined in this report, 2025 was another exceptional year for Irish agri-food exports overall and for the Irish drinks sector, with the export value of Irish drinks exceeding €2 billion for the second year running. This success is hard-fought; Irish drinks exporters have shown resilience in the face of evolving consumer preferences and changes in the trading environment across key markets.
“The development and strengthening of new markets have been essential to this solid performance. The IWA will continue to do all we can to support market diversification to safeguard current and future growth.
“Regarding Irish Whiskey, the introduction of a 15% tariff on exports to the USA – our biggest market – remains a challenge for our sector, with exports falling 5% in 2025. We hope that 2026 will see renewed efforts to return to the ‘zero-for-zero’ trading arrangement with the USA, for the benefit of transatlantic trade for both American and Irish Whiskey producers.
“The IWA commends the agencies – in particular Bord Bia and the Irish government – and, above all, the exporters themselves for their contribution to another landmark year for Irish agri-food exports.”
Looking ahead, one thing whiskey makers and brands should be cognizant of is how quickly digital infrastructure is evolving—and the implications this has for transparency, traceability, and asset management across the industry.
Stuart Maxwell, COO, Proof 8, recently spoke on the shift from barcodes to QR codes and what it means for spirits. He noted that major UK retailers including Tesco are actively replacing barcodes with QR codes on products in-store, which is significant, but it’s not a surprise.
Commenting, he said:
“Retail is catching up on what modern supply chains now demand and that’s greater transparency.
“For spirits, this is a good wake-up call. We still see many barcodes around today in the day-to-day management of casks and it’s worth remembering that barcodes were never meant for managing such high-value assets. Barcodes were built for checkouts. To hold a limited amount of data to tell you something exists and in retail’s case, to tell you the price, nothing more.”
Maxwell highlighted that you consider that a cask of whiskey can be worth tens of thousands of pounds or euro, so change ownership multiple times and is subject to regulatory scrutiny at every stage, the case for QR codes becomes even more compelling than it is in retail.
“If barcodes can’t deliver the traceability supermarkets need for products with a shelf life of days, they certainly can’t deliver it for assets maturing for years,” he noted. “They only carry part of the data distilleries need to manage their operations.”
Roe & Co unveils Signature Blend: A new accessible Irish whiskey for the trade
Roe & Co Signature Blend Irish Whiskey
Roe & Co Irish Whiskey has announced the launch of Roe & Co Signature Blend Irish Whiskey, a new 40% ABV expression developed to meet growing demand for accessible, high-quality Irish whiskey across both on- and off-trade channels.
Positioned as a versatile and contemporary blend, Roe & Co Signature Blend has been crafted to appeal to a broad consumer base, from new-to-whiskey drinkers to established enthusiasts. Its smooth, balanced profile ensures strong performance both as a standalone pour and as a reliable base for popular mixed serves, supporting ease of use in high-volume venues.
The liquid combines hand-selected grain whiskey sourced from partner distilleries across Ireland with malt whiskey distilled at the Roe & Co Distillery. Matured in bourbon barrels, it delivers a consistent flavour profile with notes of caramel, vanilla and baking spices, complemented by subtle stone fruit and a gentle tannic finish.
Roe & Co Signature Blend will roll out nationwide across key retail partners including Tesco, BWG and Dunnes Stores, as well as being available at the Roe & Co Distillery in Dublin 8. The launch is supported by a focus on simple, scalable serves such as Roe & Ginger and Roe & Coke, designed to drive rate of sale in bar environments.
For more information, visit: https://www.roeandcowhiskey.com/our-whiskey
Jameson Triple Triple Chestnut Edition: Performing strongly as the ‘world’s most awarded Irish Whiskey’ gets even smoother
Jameson Triple Triple Chestnut Edition
Jameson, the world’s most awarded* and bestselling Irish whiskey, continues its momentum with Jameson Triple Triple Chestnut Edition, a smooth performing addition to the family that builds on the brand’s iconic triple distilled heritage and successful Triple Triple platform.
Triple distilled and now triple cask matured, Jameson Triple Triple Chestnut Edition is crafted at Midleton Distillery, Co. Cork. The liquid is blended from a combination of ex-Bourbon and Oloroso sherry casks, enhanced by hand selected sweet chestnut casks. This distinctive maturation delivers velvety notes of toffee, cacao and toasted almonds, creating a whiskey so smooth, it must be a Jameson. Already a triple award-winning liquid**, the Chestnut Edition has quickly proven its appeal with whiskey drinkers globally.
The expression builds on the success of the original Jameson Triple Triple, first released exclusively in travel retail. That inaugural variant paired ex-Bourbon and Oloroso sherry casks with Málaga wine casks, delivering subtle sweetness, citrus fruit notes and the signature extra smooth Triple Triple profile.
Jameson Triple Triple Chestnut Edition reflects the same craft and expertise that have made Jameson a household name worldwide. Rooted in Jameson’s philosophy of bringing people together, it continues to invite drinkers to enjoy life’s journey with a relaxed, open mindset.
Commenting on the expression, Kevin O’Gorman, master distiller, Jameson, notes:
“Jameson’s single pot still and single grain Irish whiskeys are elevated through triple cask maturation, with sweet chestnut wood adding rich notes of chocolate and fudge for a luxurious new layer to Jameson’s much-loved character.”
*Based on the tasting results of the six most influential tasting competitions over the past thirteen years (2011–2023), including The Irish Whiskey Masters, IWSC, ISC, Beverage Testing Institute, San Francisco World Spirits Competition and Ultimate Spirits Challenge.
**Based on 2024 award results from the Beverage Tasting Institute (gold), The Luxury Masters (silver), New York World Wine and Spirits Competition (silver).
Fercullen 15 Crowned World’s Best Grain Whiskey at Global World Whiskies Awards
Fercullen 15 Year Old Irish Whiskey
Powerscourt Distillery recently announced that Fercullen 15 Year Old Irish Whiskey has been named World’s Best Grain at the Global Finals of the World Whiskies Awards, held in London on Wednesday, 25 March 2026.
In a remarkable achievement, Fercullen 15 has now secured this global title for the second consecutive year — a feat rarely achieved at the World Whiskies Awards and a testament to its consistent quality and craftsmanship at the very highest level.
This prestigious international accolade follows the whiskey’s recent success in being named Ireland’s Best Grain Whiskey at the national awards in Dublin earlier this year, where it earned the right to represent Ireland on the global stage.
The World Whiskies Awards are among the most respected in the industry, judged through a rigorous blind tasting process by leading global experts. Being awarded the top global honour marks a significant achievement not only for Fercullen 15, but for Irish whiskey as a whole.
Pivotal time
This recognition comes at a pivotal time for Powerscourt Distillery, following a period of restructuring in 2025 and its subsequent acquisition by Altiva Management Inc., securing new investment and a strong foundation for future growth. The business has continued to operate throughout this period, with the recent transaction ensuring stability, safeguarding jobs, and enabling renewed focus on innovation and premium whiskey production.
Commenting on the win, John Cashman, head of brand at Powerscourt Distillery, said:
“Fercullen 15 is a whiskey that truly showcases the elegance and complexity that grain whiskey can deliver at the highest level. The interplay between the bourbon maturation and the Madeira cask finish creates layers of dried fruit, gentle spice and a natural sweetness that defines its character. To see it recognised as the best in the world — and to achieve that honour for a second year in a row — is incredibly rewarding for everyone involved in its creation.”
‘Powerful endorsement’
Adam Morgan, chairman of Powerscourt Distillery, added:
“This award is a powerful endorsement of both the quality of Fercullen whiskey and the resilience of the Powerscourt Distillery team. Following a challenging period for the business, this global recognition underscores the strength of the brand and the exciting future ahead. Winning this title for a second consecutive year is a rare distinction and reinforces our confidence in the long-term potential of the brand. With new investment and a clear strategic vision, we are committed to building on this momentum and establishing Powerscourt as a leading force in Irish whiskey worldwide.”
Fercullen 15 Year Old Irish Whiskey is crafted from a mash of corn and malt, initially matured in first-fill ex-bourbon barrels before a portion is finished in carefully selected Madeira casks. This dual maturation imparts a distinctive profile of vanilla sweetness, dried fruit complexity and a smooth, refined finish.
This latest achievement further cements Fercullen’s position among the world’s leading premium whiskey brands and highlights the continued evolution and global recognition of Irish whiskey.
For more information about Powerscourt Distillery and its award-winning whiskeys, visit www.powerscourtdistillery.com
Wayward Irish Spirits launches The Kerry Way Whiskey – Ireland’s first County exclusive whiskey
Wayward Irish Spirits has recently launched The Kerry Way Whiskey, created exclusively for sale in The Kingdom, which also introduces an innovative ‘bottle for life’ & recyclable Refill Pouch format.
Commenting on the launch, Maurice O’Connell, Wayward Irish Spirits founder, said: “We wanted to create a Whiskey from Kerry, just for Kerry.”
The Kerry Way Whiskey is an approachable smooth Port cask finished blend inspired by Kerry’s natural beauty, the warmth & welcome of its people and forged by its ever-changing weather. Created by the team behind the Liberator range of premium Whiskeys, the fruity fig & berry notes of the Port cask finish appeal to the tastes of beginners and connoisseurs alike and is the style for which The Liberator has become renowned.
He added: “We’ve been making The Liberator Irish Whiskey and Lakeview Single Estate Whiskey here in Fossa since 2018, selling both nationally and internationally, but people in Kerry don’t always realise how local we are. The Kerry Way Whiskey puts us front and centre in our home County.”
Not for sale outside The Kingdom, it will only be available to locals and Kerry’s over one million international and domestic visitors. To assist industry partners with their sustainability goals, Wayward have introduced recyclable refill pouches and only local deliveries. Bottles will be available in retail outlets as usual, but bars and pubs will get a ‘bottle for life’ with pouch refills collected by Wayward for recycling.
O’Connell noted: “We’ve always been conscious of our impact on this extraordinarily beautiful environment. My family have been on this land for 900 years and our own Origin Green verified sustainability plan (for which we were awarded gold membership for 2023) guides our efforts to protect it.
“Visitors want local experiences and tastes that they cannot get elsewhere. We’re hoping our branding will be an obvious starting point for bar staff when asked for a Kerry Whiskey (alongside other local brands). Sharing the same quality and Port cask DNA as our Liberator range, it’s a natural lead in for them to help customers discover our other Whiskeys. By giving the bar trade competitive bulk pricing on a quality local Small Batch product, we aim to reclaim some of the back bars from the Goliaths, whose financial muscle dominates.”
Tasting notes: A deep (natural) reddish gold in colour, this is an elegant, easy drinking whiskey balancing traditional Irish smoothness with the fruity richness of red berries & figs and a lingering finish.
Specification: A six-year-old small batch Irish whiskey blend of 15% Single Malt, 15% traditional Irish pot still & 70% grain whiskey finished in Ruby Port casks. Finished, blended and bottled on the Lakeview Estate at 40% ABV. The pouches are made from multi-layer plastic (recyclable) inclusive of renewables (Bio-PE), with a reduction in carbon footprint of 49% compared to a generic multi-layer pouch and end of life waste treatment reduced 198%.
Availability: Restricted to Co. Kerry! Batch #1 is initially stocked at the brand’s long-term supporters, Carryout Killarney, Castle Off Licence Tralee, O’Driscolls in Cahersiveen and selected SuperValu stores before rolling out to bars throughout the Kingdom. (Visit www.waywardirish.com
for evolving stockist list). Price: Retail price in off licences is €44.50 for the launch (later rising to €49). On trade pricing on request.
Social Media:
Instagram: @waywardirishspirits, @theliberatorwhiskey
Facebook: @waywardirishspirits
For further information contact:
Maurice O’Connell – (089) 422 8836
moc@waywardirish.com
www.waywardirish.com
Flying Tumbler Irish Whiskey takes off for busiest year yet
Flying Tumbler Irish Whiskey has begun work on an ambitious project, transforming their family farm in Co Carlow into a whiskey maturation site and brand home.
Founded by Carlow brothers, Thomas and Patrick Walsh, Flying Tumbler Irish Whiskey celebrates the adventurous spirit of the Flying Tumbler pigeon – a unique bird known for its daredevil acrobatics and innate ability to always return home.
Taking inspiration from the pigeon, the founders found a way to return home for the next leg of their journey – by bringing whiskey maturation onto the family farm at Larch Grove, Ballytarsna, Carlow, Ireland.
Securing funding through LEADER Programme 2023–2027, co-funded by the EU, Flying Tumbler Irish Whiskey has begun work on repurposing a number of farm outbuildings into bonded maturation and blending warehouses, as well as a craft bottling line.
Speaking about the diversification project, founder Patrick Walsh said:
“For us, Flying Tumbler Irish Whiskey was always about returning home. The farm at Larch Grove has been in our family for generations and we wanted to create a new farming future for generations to come. We are extremely grateful to the Carlow County Development Partnership and their programme for their help in realising our vision.”
Alongside the farm diversification project, the Flying Tumbler team have been busy bottling two new expressions to complete their core trilogy. Launching in the coming months, The Roller, a non-age-stated Single Grain, and The Tippler, a blend of Single Pot Still and Single Grain, will be available for export to key markets alongside The Bird, a triple-distilled blend of Single Malt and Single Grain currently retailing in Ireland for €48.
Signalling their intent to expand their global footprint and enhance their consumer experience, the team have also recently launched an interactive website – www.flyingtumbler.com
– that brings the brand to life in a fun and engaging way.
Yeats Irish Whiskey launches limited edition first expression
Yeats Irish Whiskey
A new voice has entered the canon of Irish whiskey. Yeats Irish Whiskey, a Sligo-conceived, Ireland-distilled premium whiskey, launches its debut expression this spring: The Lake Isle of Innisfree, a limited-edition release inspired by the life, landscape, and literary legacy of W.B. Yeats.
Yeats Irish Whiskey is the culmination of a journey that began more than a decade ago. Originally conceived in 2015 as a distillery project, the vision evolved through pauses, restarts, and reflection, mirroring the patience required to make great Irish whiskey. In November 2025, the project entered its final and decisive phase, leading to the launch of the brand’s first expression.
“This whiskey is the result of time, resilience, and respect for craft, for tradition, and for storytelling,” said Patrick Ward, founder, Yeats Irish Whiskey. “Like a true Irish whiskey, this is our third distillation of the idea and the one that mattered.”
A whiskey ‘rooted in poetry and place’
Yeats Irish Whiskey is conceived in County Sligo, a landscape inseparable from Yeats’s poetry and imagination. Each release in the series will take its name from one of Yeats’s poems, beginning with The Lake Isle of Innisfree. From liquid to label, the brand is designed as a tribute to Irish cultural heritage, where whiskey becomes a medium for story as much as spirit.
4,000 individually numbered bottles of this inaugural release are available worldwide, positioning it as both a collector’s item and a meaningful first chapter in a longer narrative.
The liquid: artisanal, layered and distinct
The debut expression is a carefully composed blend of:
• 90% aged Irish grain whiskey, matured in primarily first-fill ex-Bourbon American oak casks
• 9% triple-distilled Irish malt whiskey, finished in Ruby Port casks
• 1% peated malt, added for subtle depth and structure
Looking ahead
The Lake Isle of Innisfree is the first expression in an ongoing Yeats Irish Whiskey series. Work has already begun on the second release, with future expressions exploring new cask finishes, styles, and poetic themes—all remaining small-batch, limited, and story-led.
Planned initiatives include curated tastings, cultural partnerships, and a collector’s trilogy box set following the first three releases.
Availability
Yeats Irish Whiskey – The Lake Isle of Innisfree is currently available in limited quantities. RRP: €90 / £80.
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