Black Irish launches in Tesco NI

Darker Still Spirits-owned Black Irish is now available across all Tesco stores in Northern Ireland.

Black Irish is exclusively distributed internationally through Kirker Greer Spirits, with listings in Finland, Germany, Netherlands and Singapore, as well as the UK and Ireland.

John Soden, CCO of Kirker Greer Spirits, said: “We are delighted to have Black Irish listed in Tesco stores and bring this unique expression directly to consumers in Northern Ireland.

“The brand has proven to be a hit internationally and we look forward to hearing the feedback from Northern Irish consumers.”

In April the brand secured a listing with UK retailer Sainsbury’s in Northern Ireland.

The whiskey-and-stout spirit drink, which gets its dark colour from an infusion of Irish stout, chocolate malt and roasted barley, is triple distilled and matured in deep-charred American ex-Bourbon casks.

The addition of stout is said to bring rich complex coffee aromas mingled with light bitter notes.

The recipe was developed by Adrian Walker, who is said to have been responsible for several brand developments, including Cîroc Vodka.

The liquid was inspired by a vintage beer style, and the bottle is produced in bespoke dark glass, with a crown cap and flip-top closure.

The label design is also a nod to the world of stout.

The spirit is bottled at 40% ABV and is available to purchase at Tesco Northern Ireland both in-store and online, with an RRP of £30 (US$36.52) per 700ml bottle.

Black Irish recently rolled out in Ireland travel retail, after securing a listing with The Loop in Dublin Airport.

Last year, Mariah Carey launched Black Irish cream liqueur, but soon found herself in a trademark dispute with the Irish whiskey-and-stout spirit drink brand.