Distiller launches American rye-finished Irish whiskey

Pugilist Spirit has launched an American rye-finished Irish whiskey called Prizefight – a collaboration between Ireland’s West Cork Distilling and New Hampshire’s Tamworth Distilling.

Pugilist Spirit has launched an American rye-finished Irish whiskey called Prizefight

Upon deciding to enter the Irish whiskey market, Flor Prendergast, of Pugilist Spirit, called upon industry maverick Steven Grasse, who came up with the trans-Atlantic idea.

The duo reached out to West Cork Distilling to create the whiskey, while Grasse’s own distillery, Tamworth, arranged the finishing.

Inspired by the connection, Grasse named the whiskey Prizefight to pay homage to the Irish men who journeyed to America and became the greatest fighters of the time.

The label depicts the fight between John Morrissey and Yankee Sullivan – two of the most famous Irish-born fighters of their day – which took place at Boston Corners, New York, on October 12, 1853

The resulting liquid is said to be “a fresh, clean whiskey” with fruit and floral notes and “a hit of spice” from the rye cask finish.

Prizefight Irish Whiskey is available in select bars and retailers in Dublin at an RRP of €50.