Irish Whiskey News & Stories

What makes Irish whiskey Irish? June 28, 2026 4:00 AM Irish Whiskey is a globally recognised product protected under under EU geographic indications (GIs), but is it defined by where it is distilled, or by where the ingredients come from? This was at the heart of questions put to Martin Heydon, Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, by Social Democrats TD Jennifer Whitmore recently. The Wicklow TD asked Minister Heydon about the proportion of grain used in the production of Irish single grain whiskey that is sourced domestically, and the measures in place to support the use of Irish-grown grain...

The 16 Most Important Irish Whiskeys of the 21st Century So Far words: David Thomas Tao Published: March 16, 2026 At the turn of the millennium, there were just three operational distilleries in Ireland: New Midleton and Cooley in the Republic of Ireland, and Bushmills in Northern Ireland. Today, there are around 50, with more planned facilities on the way. And while Jameson’s core offering remains a ubiquitous fixture, Irish whiskey’s growth has been powered by expansion at all rungs on the value ladder. According to DISCUS data, since 2003, the premium and super-premium Irish whiskey categories have grown by 1,053 percent and 2,769...

The Olympics are over and plenty of gold medals were awarded to hard workers fulfilling their dreams. Those participating in the Irish whiskey renaissance over the past 15 years have also been chasing dr(e)ams. As we celebrate Saint Patrick's Day, it is also a good time to reflect on the Irish whiskey industry. The last 15 years have seen highs and lows, but mostly it's been a fun ride. Check out, "After the Gold Rush", a recent article providing a primer for the past, present, and potential of the Irish Whiskey industry. Irish whiskey: after the gold rush 12 February,...

2026 is shaping up to be a banner year for Irish Whiskeys coming to the USA. Based on brand press announcements and the TTB Cola Label Approval registry, there are a large number of releases expected this year. Many are likely targeting to be on the shelves by Saint Patrick's Day, if not already. Below is a partial list to watch out for:   Adara Single Malt Black Emerald Single Grain 7yr & 15yr Dingle 10yr Single Malt Dingle Single Pot Still Drumshanbo Single Pot Still Sherry Maturation Jameson Crested Jameson Distillers Batch McConnell's Blend Cognac Finish Old Comber 7yr...

  Cheers to 2025! Thanks to all IWSA Members for a fun and successful 2025. We plan to bottle our Micil cask for members in late 2026. Before we look ahead let's take one last look back at everything that went on in 2025. 15th Anniversary 2025 was a monumental year for the IWSA as we celebrated our 15th Anniversary as the premier Irish Whiskey club in the USA. We celebrated with a 3 month lead up to the big event with a a Favorite 15 whiskey countdown and Guess the Whiskeys contest. Members participated in a Live Virtual Event...