The Irish Whiskey Association is celebrating International Whiskey Day today (3 March) by highlighting the sector’s continued success, with exports having surpassed €1 billion in 2024.
The association has also published its latest “Irish Whiskey in Numbers” data set, illustrating the industry’s strong performance.
According to the latest figures from Bord Bia and the International Wine and Spirits Record (IWSR), Irish Whiskey sales exceeded 15 million cases last year, reflecting sustained global demand.
Notably, exports to India surged by 107%, making it the drink’s fastest-growing market.
Irish Whiskey is a largely international product – Ireland exports 90% of what it produces – and this premium product is finding favour in new and emerging markets.
As a Geographical Indication (GI) product since 1989, Irish Whiskey can only be distilled on the island of Ireland and is subject to strict production standards.
113 markets currently sell Irish whiskey, and in over 90% of these markets it enjoy legal protection.
Beyond exports, the spirit continues to make a significant contribution to the Irish economy.
The Brewing and Distilling sector supports over 10,000 jobs, while also driving employment in hospitality, tourism and agriculture.
The Irish Whiskey Association established Irish Whiskey 360º to promote the distillery tour and visitor experience available to the domestic and international tourist – with over 800,000 visitors to member distilleries last year.
Its popularity has shown that more and more people are hoping to learn more about the store of Irish Whiskey through its unique brands and distilleries.
‘Innovation, Resilience And Hard Work’
Eoin Ó Catháin, the director of the Irish Whiskey Association, said that he hopes to harness 2024’s incredible growth in the sector moving forward.
Ó Catháin said, “The success of the Irish Whiskey sector is due to the innovation, resilience and hard work of our Irish Whiskey producers – passionate distillers that are found in almost every country in Ireland, deeply proud of the heritage of Irish Whiskey.
“Last year, we celebrated 700 years of Irish Whiskey Tradition: 700 years since the publication of the Red Book of Ossory, with its instructions for distilling aqua vitae – or uisce beatha (water of life) – which of course we know today as whiskey.
“The ongoing hard work and ingenuity of Irish Whiskey producers provides a solid platform for the next 700 years!”
Read More: Redbreast Irish Whiskey And Andrew Scott Team Up At SXSW Festival
Read More: Redbreast Irish Whiskey And Andrew Scott Team Up At SXSW Festival
