Why the world can’t seem to get enough of Irish whiskey

THE global thirst for Irish whiskey is proving insatiable – with exports to the US increasing by more than 20% in the first six months of the year.

It is the fastest growing spirit in the world, up by a massive 300% in the past ten years.

Such is the scale of the explosion in sales that exports are forecast to double to 144million bottles by 2020 and double again to 288milllion bottles by 2030.

Irish Whiskey Association chief William Lavelle said: ‘Irish whiskey is experiencing exceptional growth around the world with almost 200 bottles being sold every minute… The US is our most valuable market both in terms of exports and attracting Irish whiskey tourists. Imports by the US increased by 22% in the first six months of this year.’

And a spokesman for the association added: ‘Growth in America and Canada has really taken off and a lot of that is in the 25-35 age bracket. That’s down to the different types of whiskey and it comes into the hipster craft beer market of customer. It’s people looking for something that’s not ordinary or mass-produced.’

The recent increase in demand for Irish whiskey has made it the fastest growing drink in the spirits sector, according to fft.ie.

Mr Lavelle added: ‘A few years ago, Ireland only had three whiskey distilleries. There are now 18 operating in locations ranging from Dublin’s Liberties to rural communities.’