The Irish News: Second Irish Whiskey Industry Awards announced at Belfast Whiskey Week finale

Voted for by the public, three of the major product awards went to Ulster producers — a notable result for a category historically dominated by Dublin and Midleton. Brendan Carty of Killowen in the Mournes was named Distiller of the Year, Alex Thomas of Bushmills collected the Blender of the Year accolade, and Two Stacks near Newry was named Bonder/Independent Bottler of the Year.

The Irish News piece highlights the energy behind these wins: "The cask strength enthusiasm of Carty, Thomas, and the men behind Two Stacks is evident in all they do and make."

Dublin's Bar 1661 — the home of poitín — earned a double, with Will Lynch named Bartender of the Year and Dave Mulligan named Bar Manager of the Year. Irish Whiskey Bar of the Year went to the Shelbourne Bar in Cork. The Rebel County also received recognition for Apprentice Distiller/Blender of the Year — Deirdre O'Carroll of Midleton.

A separate Outstanding Support to Belfast Whiskey Week award went to Echlinville's Séamus Óg Birt and Jarlath Watson — a recognition of the brand-side partnership that has helped the festival grow.

The 2023 festival ran 100 events across nine days, in partnership with 20 venues citywide and sessions with 40 brands and distilleries. The Irish Whiskey Industry Awards have continued every year since, and their position at the end of Belfast Whiskey Week now anchors the festival as the place the Irish whiskey industry comes together publicly to recognise itself.

Read the full report: The Irish News — Second Irish Whiskey Industry Awards announced at Belfast Whiskey Week finale