In a significant media event involving approximately 70 press, wholesalers, importers and other guests at ID's large Midleton Distillery near Cork, two single pot still whiskeys were unveiled.
The new whiskeys are: Powers John's Lane named after the address of Powers' original distillery in Dublin and Midleton Barry Crockett Legacy, a tribute to the distillery's former master distiller and his family. Both whiskeys are 46% alcohol, the Powers retains the original brand's robust style while the Midleton is more elegant and sophisticated with pronounced citrus notes.
ID technical director, David Quinn, said that the Powers' fieriness comes from the use of second and refill barrels which allow the distillate to show through. Whereas the Midleton is aged in first fill bourbon casks with a portion of unseasoned,virgin oak casks which soften the spirit and gives more finesse and subtlety.
The new whiskeys are available initially in Europe but will be rolled out to other key markets for Irish whiskey, such as the US, as listings are secured.
The new expressions are part of Pernod Ricard's plans to expand and capitalise on the burgeoning Irish whiskey category.
Plans include doubling the capacity of both the pot still and grain distilleries at Midleton. Pot still capacity will go from 10 million litres to 22 million litres and grain from 20-21 million litres to 40 million litres. The company is also acquiring land to build more warehouses.
For more on Irish Whiskey, see Christian Davis's feature in next month's Drinks International.
