THE HISTORY OF IRISH WHISKEY

The history of Irish whiskey making flourished in Ireland during the reign of Elizabeth I, 1558 - 1603.

The most successful were the four big distillers: John Power, John Jameson, George Roe and William Jameson. Along with other exports, their products were sold throughout the British Empire.

Both Irish and Scottish whiskey became popular drinks, but as Irish Whiskey appeared to be on the verge of taking the world market by storm, four totally unconnected events took a stranglehold on its progress.

The first occurrence was in the unlikely form of a capuchin friar, Father Mathew, who during the 1840's and 50's turned people against what he perceived and the demon drink. Within six years the number of people signed up and converted had reached 75,000. The small provincial distiller began to look financial ruin in the face.