The Pogues launch Irish whiskey

West Cork Distillers, one of only three independent whiskey distilleries in Ireland, has launched an Irish whiskey in partnership with The Pogues.

Fronted by singer Shane MacGowan, The Pogues are a Celtic punk band from London who formed in 1982. The band reached international prominence in the 1980s, but are perhaps best known for their classic Christmas duet, Fairytale in New York, with Kirsty MacColl.

The whiskey is a blend of grain malt Irish whiskey, which its producers claim makes it Ireland’s “highest malt-containing blended Irish whiskey”.

“We wanted to create an Irish whiskey with global appeal, which isn’t without its challenges,” says John O’Connell, co-founder of West Cork Distillers.

“The Pogues offer a perfect partnership as they share many of the same values as our company such as an independent spirit, a slightly unorthodox approach and a commitment to quality, as well as success on the international stage.”

Crafted by distillers Barry Walsh and Frank McHardy, the whiskey is aimed squarely at the younger market targeting 25 to 35 year olds.

The whiskey is said to have an aroma of malt, cracked nuts, almond and a slight sweetness. Its “smooth intensity delivers a palate that is malty and floral with a mild chocolate taste and lingering citrus”, a release said.

Halewood International has been appointed to market the whiskey in the UK. However the distillery is also working with more than 16 partners to distribute the products throughout Europe, Australia, Japan, USA and Canada with the aim of establishing The Pogues Irish Whiskey as a global brand.

The whiskey will be sold in the UK for an RRP of £30.