In 2024, the Irish whiskey scene flourished, with new distilleries emerging and established ones innovating. Glen Melia, Sourcing Manager for The Single Malt Shop, immersed himself in this dynamic landscape, engaging with producers and sampling the latest offerings. Reflecting on the year, he shares three standout experiences that encapsulate the richness of Ireland’s whiskey heritage and its forward-looking spirit.
In this article, we will take a look at how Irish whiskey in 2024 saw some great developments.
1. Bushmills Distillery: A Journey Through Time
At the beginning of the year, Glen accepted a longstanding invitation to tour the historic Bushmills Distillery in Northern Ireland. The visit required an overnight stay in the quaint village, setting the stage for an immersive experience. Despite the January chill, the comprehensive tour of both the old and new distillery facilities provided warmth and excitement.
A highlight of the visit was a private tasting session featuring some of Bushmills’ lesser-known releases. This experience showcased the distillery’s exceptional use of diverse barrels and the intricate flavors they cultivate. Impressed by the complexity and craftsmanship, Glen is already planning a return trip.
For those looking to acquaint themselves with Bushmills, Glen recommends starting with their 10-Year-Old Single Malt. This expression offers a glimpse into the distillery’s dedication to quality and tradition.
2. Whiskey Live Dublin 2024: A Celebration of Innovation
Whiskey Live Dublin is an annual event that Glen views as more than just a tasting opportunity; it’s a social gathering that fosters connections within the industry. The event provides a platform to engage with numerous Irish whiskey companies and gain insights into their upcoming releases, as well as to gauge market trends.
Among the many brands showcased, Glen was particularly impressed by Hinch Whiskey. Their offerings stood out, especially considering the accolades they garnered later in the year. Additionally, The Irishman range continued to expand, introducing the world’s first tequila-finished Irish Single Pot Still whiskey—a testament to the innovative spirit driving the industry.
A visit to the Mitchell & Sons booth revealed the enduring popularity of their Spot range. Glen has always appreciated the crisp apple notes of Green Spot and the berry-sweet intensity of Red Spot. For those interested in exploring this range, he suggests the Green Spot Château Léoville Barton, which marries traditional Irish whiskey characteristics with unique wine cask influences.
3. Powerscourt Distillery: A Scenic Fusion of Heritage and Craft
The summer months saw Glen revisiting the picturesque landscapes of County Wicklow, reminiscent of his childhood family drives. This time, the destination was the Powerscourt Distillery, nestled within the idyllic Powerscourt Estate. The Fercullen range from this distillery has quickly become one of the most successful among Ireland’s newer establishments.
In the distillery’s atmospheric tasting room, Glen learned about upcoming rare and innovative cask finishes planned for future releases. Given the popularity of their 2024 bottles, it’s evident that Powerscourt’s momentum will continue into 2025. Knowing he was among many who journeyed through the Wicklow Mountains to experience this exciting distillery was a fitting way to conclude the year.
For those eager to explore Powerscourt’s offerings, Glen recommends the Fercullen 18-Year-Old Single Malt. This well-matured expression exemplifies the distillery’s commitment to excellence.
Reflections on a Vibrant Year
Glen’s experiences throughout 2024 highlight the dynamic evolution of the Irish whiskey industry. From venerable establishments like Bushmills to innovative newcomers such as Powerscourt, there’s a palpable sense of pride and progress. Events like Whiskey Live Dublin further underscore the community’s dedication to innovation and excellence.
As the year concludes, Glen looks forward to 2025 with anticipation, eager to discover the next wave of exceptional Irish whiskey experiences. For enthusiasts and newcomers alike, Ireland’s whiskey landscape offers a rich tapestry of flavors, stories, and traditions waiting to be explored.
For more insights and inspiration on Irish whiskey experiences, visit The Single Malt Shop’s blog.