Episode 9. Louise McGuane: Reimagining Irish Whiskey Traditions

Louise returned to Ireland for a summer to research the global significance of Irish Whiskey and discovered the prominent role it had in her country’s history. And despite the majority of Irish Whiskey distilleries being owned by multi-nationals who weren’t open to becoming involved, Louise met John Teeling – a prominent figure in the industry – who had stock he was willing to sell to her. Louise took these and invested them into various whiskies, rather than distilleries, and began trading with ‘the small guys’ on the Irish Whiskey scene.

With a vast collection of whiskey now in her possession, Louise began thinking about how she could turn these liquids into new creations. Inspired by JJ Corry – an Irish Whiskey bonder from the 1800s that she found during her research and after whom her company is named – she sought to develop new ways to create remarkable spirits. Determined to do this without a third-party bonder, Louise travelled to wineries, distilleries and bodegas far-and-wide to seek out an array of liquids that could create a library of unique flavours.

Today, JJ Corry is renowned in the Irish Whiskey category, and has partnered with The Last Drop Distillers to create The Last Drop’s first-ever Irish Whiskey, Release No. 32: A 32 Year Old Single Malt Irish Whiskey – a landmark moment for the business. Working alongside The Last Drops’ Managing Director Rebecca Jago, and Master Blender Helen Mulholland, Louise has made good on her mission to elevate the perception of Irish Whiskey on the world stage and prove it is worthy of the treasure-seeking status.