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BBR adds Irish whiskey to spirits range
Berry Bros. & Rudd has added an Irish whiskey to its spirits range, following its decision to bring distribution of its spirits in-house as part of its “long-term plan” to build its supply capabilities in the on- and off-trade.
Craoi na Mona (pronounced Cree na Mona), Gaelic for ‘heart of the peat bog’, is an aged single malt Irish whiskey that has been finished in ex-Laphroaig peated casks.
“Though peat has traditionally been used in the drying of barley in both Ireland and Scotland, finishing is another recognised way of imparting those characteristic smoky flavours”, said Doug McIvor, spirits expert at Berry Bros. & Rudd.
“After the whiskey was matured for 10 years in American Oak casks it was shipped from Ireland to Scotland where it spent a few short months in casks that had previously matured heavily peated Islay malt.
“To be honest, we weren’t completely sure what the outcome would be, but now it’s done I can say we are all categorically pleased with the results.”
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BBR brings spirits distribution in house
On the nose, the 10-year-old whiskey is described by its makers as having a “good hint of peat, charred wood and some burnt grassy notes – flowers, bracken and ferns”, alongside “gentle notes of yellow fruit and lemon meringue, sugared almonds and some rhubarb.”
Earlier this year BBR brought arrangements that had been in place with distributors Maxxium UK since 2006 and with Mangrove since 2014, to an end.
By bringing the distribution of its portfolio in-house, Berry Bros & Rudd, which counts the royal estate among its clients, said it will look to “develop its own range of spirits both nationally and within London through existing trade relationships and new customers.”
Craoi na Mona joins other BBR spirits brands, which include No.3 Gin, The Kings Ginger Liqueur and whiskies from Speyside distillery The Glenrothes, and will be distributed to the on and off-trade via the company’s wholesale business, Fields Morris & Verdin, and online.
The 46% Craoi na Mona Single Malt Irish Whiskey, 10 Year Old, will carry an RRP of £54.95.