MCCONNELL’S Irish Whisky, one of Ireland’s most historic and most cherished whiskey brands, has embarked on a new chapter in its remarkable journey. This iconic whiskey is now within reach for South African connoisseurs, thanks to the renaissance led by the Belfast Distillery Company in collaboration with Firebrand Africa.
With roots tracing back to the year 1776, McConnell’s Irish Whisky boasts a storied past, founded by the esteemed McConnell family, who were revered blenders, bottlers, and distillers in Belfast City over three centuries. A testament to their success, McConnell’s thrived for more than 150 years, etching its name in the annals of Irish whiskey history. However, the whiskey industry faced its trials in the form of fire, war, political turmoil, and technological advancements, leading to a decline in the 1930s.
Fast forward to 2019, and McConnell’s Irish Whisky has experienced a remarkable revival, spreading its wings to more than 40 global markets. “In partnership with Firebrand Africa, we are thrilled to introduce McConnell’s Irish Whisky to South Africa, sharing the rich history and heritage of our brand with this region,” says John Kelly, chief executive at McConnell’s Irish Whisky, pictured above. “Our schedule is bustling, with planned visits to Cape Town and our participation in Whisky Live in Johannesburg, where we will present our portfolio of premium products.
“I am eager to meet fellow whiskey enthusiasts and share the remarkable journey of McConnell’s Irish Whisky, including our esteemed 5-Year and Sherry Cask Finish expressions.”
The original McConnell’s Irish Whisky 5 Year is a masterful blend of Irish malt and grain whiskies, gently matured in select bourbon casks, imparting delightful notes of vanilla sweetness, ripe fruits, butterscotch, and pepper spice. This five-year expression is bottled at 43% ABV.
Also debuting in the South African market is McConnell’s Sherry Cask Finish, aged for five years, initially matured in first-fill select Bourbon barrels and then finished in the finest Oloroso Sherry casks, unveiling rich aromas of dried figs, dark chocolate, and lingering spice. It is bottled at 46% ABV, non-chill filtered.
Both whiskies have won numerous awards. For more information about McConnell’s Irish Whisky, click here.
- Whisky Live is at the Firs of Rosebank November 1-3.
