I can’t believe it’s not GI

I can’t believe it’s not GI

Modern Irish whiskey and the EU technical file

25th September 2024 (Wednesday), Wynn's Hotel, Dublin 1

2024 marks ten years since the Irish Department of Agriculture and the Irish whiskey industry submitted a 'technical file' to the European Commission, which led to Irish Whiskey, Blended Irish Whiskey, Grain Irish Whiskey, Malt Irish Whiskey and Pot Still Irish Whiskey (as well as Irish Poitín and Irish Cream) obtaining 'geographical indication' (GI) status. The GI protects Irish Whiskey against misuse and imitation in markets around the world, as well as providing assurances about production standards.

The technical file for Pot Still Irish Whiskey states that cereals other than barley (malted or unmalted) are limited to 5% or less of the overall mashbill. While this reflected the practice over the previous 50 years or so, grains such as wheat, rye and oats historically made up a much greater portion of historic pot still recipes. Although proposals to amend the file have been put forward, no change has been made to date.

Several current Irish distillers are making whiskey in pot stills which does not qualify as 'Pot Still Irish Whiskey' because it does not conform to the technical file. Some are reviving old recipes, while others are experimenting with new ideas. This is leading to some of the most exciting current developments in Irish Whiskey.

This month, a number of Irish distilleries have kindly shared with IWS members some of their best 'non-GI' whiskeys. We will be presenting several samples of once (and maybe future) pot stills, some of which may never be commercially available. We will suggest tasting techniques with a couple of complimentary treats. 

The tasting will be presented by long standing IWS members Rachel Lindsay and Liam Smith. This event will take place on a Wednesday!  

Event Booking Terms & Conditions: https://www.irishwhiskeysociety.com/IWS-In-Person-Events