Louise McGuane
Louise McGuane is an Irish Whiskey pioneer whose career has taken her from the West Coast of Ireland to some of the world’s most dynamic drinks markets. Raised in a small rural community, she carried a deep connection to her Irish roots as she built an international career spanning New York, Singapore, and Mexico, working with leading global drinks companies and developing a nuanced understanding of the industry.
Her return to Ireland marked a turning point. While researching the historic significance of Irish Whiskey, Louise rediscovered the heritage of Ireland’s bonding tradition and the role it once played in shaping the category. A chance partnership with John Teeling gave her access to rare stocks, which she began curating and trading among the emerging independent whiskey community.
Inspired by 19th-century bonder JJ Corry, she revived the lost art of whiskey bonding with a modern approach. Travelling to bodegas, distilleries, and wineries around the world, Louise built an extensive library of exceptional casks and flavour profiles. Her work has been instrumental in reimagining what Irish Whiskey can be, crafting blends that honour tradition while pushing boundaries.
Louise’s signature contribution to The Last Drop is Signature Creation No. 3, Release No. 32, a rare 32 Year Old Single Malt Irish Whiskey that marks the brand’s first release in the Irish whiskey category. Selected from an exceptional library of vintage 1991 Irish single malts, the whiskies were carefully chosen, married, and finished by Louise in an ex-Oloroso Sherry butt, bringing depth, harmony, and quiet complexity to the final spirit. This release reflects Louise’s instinctive approach to flavour and her role as both creator and curator within The Assembly.