Actor James Nesbitt teams up with Hinch Distillery

The Hobbit star James Nesbitt has partnered with Northern Ireland’s Hinch Distillery to help promote its whiskeys.

Established in 2019, Irish whiskey and gin producer Hinch Distillery opened its £15 million (US$19m) site in County Down in 2021.

Together, Nesbitt and Hinch will promote Northern Ireland’s ‘rich heritage and craftsmanship’.

Hinch Distillery founder Dr Terry Cross OBE said: “We are delighted to welcome James Nesbitt to the Hinch Distillery family. His passion for our craft and commitment to Northern Ireland’s talent perfectly aligns with our values.

“This partnership is not just about endorsements; it’s about shared passion and vision and an appreciation of all the good things to come out of Northern Ireland.”

Northern Ireland native Nesbitt, who has starred in British television shows Cold Feet and Murphy’s Law, will be ‘actively’ involved in the distillery’s initiatives and help to connect with the brand’s audience.

“I’m thrilled to be joining forces with Hinch Distillery,” said Nesbitt. “As a proud Northern Irishman, I have always admired the dedication and craftsmanship that goes into creating Hinch Irish whiskeys and Ninth Wave Irish gins. This partnership is an opportunity to celebrate the best of our region and its iconic brands.”

Since its launch, Hinch has expanded its presence to more than 30 markets, including the US.

The distillery has also ramped up production from 400,000 litres of pure alcohol (LPA) to 1.2m a year.

Hinch is not the only Irish whiskey brand working with local talent. Jameson teamed up with comedian Aisling Bea and Peaky Blinders star Cillian Murphy on new campaigns in 2023.

Actors Jean-Claude Van Damme and Liev Schreiber have also entered the Irish whiskey category with new brands.