DIAGEO launched a new whiskey last week as it unveiled plans for a €25 million investment at St James’s Gate.
The move by Diageo into the premium Irish whiskey category comes as the company prepares to invest in a new distillery in the old power station at the iconic Southside site.
The new whiskey, Roe & Co, is named in honour of George Roe, the once world-famous whiskey maker who helped build the golden era of Irish hiskey in the 19th century.
His distillery, George Roe and Co, extended over 17 acres on Thomas Street in the heart of the Liberties and was once Ireland’s largest distillery.
As neighbours for hundreds of years George Roe and Co and Guinness were the two biggest names at the heart of Dublin’s historic brewing and distilling quarter.
Diageo now intends to build on this rich heritage with the creation of a new distillery by converting the historic former Guinness Power House on Thomas Street.
The new St James’s Gate distillery will be situated just a stone’s throw away from where the George Roe and Co distillery once stood and, subject to planning approval, will begin production in the first half of 2019.
Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Michael Creed, said: “Irish whiskey is experiencing a renaissance and is truly an Irish success story.
“It is seeing a return to the success it experienced in its golden era in the 19th century.
“It is now the fastest growing spirit drink in the world with global sales increasing by over 300 per cent and record exports of over €400 million in the last 10 years.
“This commitment and investment by Diageo comes at an opportune time for the sector which is experiencing unprecedented global demand.
“This €25 million investment in this project over three years will support the local economy, create jobs, and bring a welcome new addition to the city’s tourism offering.”
The minister added: “The Irish whiskey market has a great story to tell and today’s announcement marks an exciting new chapter in its development.
Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovations, Mary Mitchell O’Connor TD added, “It is great to see Diageo continue to invest in and further enhance the historical Dublin 8 area to create a fantastic attraction for tourists and locals alike. The proposed distillery will play a major role in the overall regeneration of the Liberties through the repurposing of the St James’ Gate Power House.
“Irish produced whiskey has never been as popular, garnering international acclaim and recognition. Diageo’s decision to move into the premium Irish whiskey category and its plans to invest in a new distillery will further enhance Ireland’s reputation as one of the finest premium whiskey producers in the world”.