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IWA debuts mentoring programme for Irish whiskey makers
The Irish Whiskey Association (IWA) has launched a new initiative to provide Irish whiskey producers with access to knowledge and guidance from mentors in the industry.
The Knowledge Still programme will include one-to-one support for new Irish whiskey producers
The Knowledge Still programme was launched at the Midleton Distillery in County Cork today (27 September).
The programme offers entrants a programme of workshops, seminars and one-to-one support from experienced distillery and industry experts on topics including distilling, innovation, and health and safety management.
In the last five years, 16 new distilleries have opened in Ireland and a further 29 are in the planning or development stage, according to the IWA.
The Knowledge Still programme will also ensure that products will continue to comply with the Irish whiskey ‘technical file’ and other statutory requirements, as well as maintaining high standards.
William Lavelle, head of the IWA, said: “Protecting the high standards of the Irish whiskey industry and promoting innovation is key to the future success of the category.
“Our main goal is to protect and pass on the high-quality standards which have become a hallmark for Irish whiskey.
“The Knowledge Still programme will ensure that all distillers and producers, both new and established, are following standards of best practice and producing a high-quality Irish whiskey product.
“The Irish whiskey industry is already a world leader when it comes to supporting new entrants, and the introduction of this structured programme will only further cement this leadership position. Our growing global consumer base can be assured of more exciting developments in the Irish whiskey category for years to come.”
Brian Nation, master distiller at Irish Distillers, added: “As the category continues to evolve, we want to make sure we support one another and build on the high standards and innovative thinking that has served the sector so well to date.
“We are excited to open the doors to our Midleton Distillery and welcome our peers from 14 distilleries across the country. We are particularly looking forward to welcoming some of the newer entrants to the market. Their passion for their product and entrepreneurial spirit is truly infectious and reinforces our own ambition for the sector.”