Black Irish enters the Netherlands

by Alice Brooker

Darker Still Spirits-owned Black Irish whiskey-and-stout spirit drink is being rolled out in the Netherlands.

The whisky-and-stout based drink has secured distribution through Amsterdam-based Anker Spirits in another territory in Europe, after being rolled out internationally to new markets such as Germany and France earlier this year. John Soden, chief commercial officer of Kirker Greer Spirits, said: “We are seeing great success and demand for Black Irish in Europe, due to the distinct flavour profile of the liquid and visually striking bottle. "The whiskey category in the Netherlands is growing, with the Dutch consumer looking for premium and niche variations, and now is the perfect time to introduce Black Irish to that consumer." The spirit is a triple-distilled Irish whiskey, matured in deep-charred American ex-Bourbon casks. Its dark colour is a result of a stout and barrel-aged stout blend, which is used to cut cask strength whiskey to a bottling strength of 40% ABV. Soden added: "We look forward to working with our distributors in the Netherlands to continue to build on the success of Black Irish across Europe.” The liquid boasts coffee aromas and light bitter notes, combined with infusions of chocolate malt and roasted barley. The dark glass bottle is inspired by vintage beer bottles, featuring a crown cap and flip-top closure. Adrian Walker, who is said to have developed brands including Cîroc vodka, crafted the recipe. The brand recommends Black Irish to be served neat, in a shot of espresso or mixed with cola, ginger ale or soda water. The 700ml bottling can be purchased for RRP £32 (US$43.72) from Amazon, The Whisky Exchange, Master of Malt or spiritly.com. The brand is currently caught up in a trademark battle with Mariah Carey for the name 'Black Irish', following the singer's launch of a range of cream liqueurs in August. Last week, it was reported that Carey's liqueurs cannot be sold in Ireland.