Co Offaly-based drinks brand Irish Mist has been sold by US company Heaven Hill Brands to Dublin-based drinks business, the Old Canal Quay Spirits company.
The Old Canal Quay Spirits company is owned and led by international spirits industry specialist and entrepreneur David Phelan and fellow Irish drinks industry figures.
He is one of the two men behind the sale of the Boru Vodka/Castle Brands which he co-founded with Pat Rigney, from The Shed Distillery, in 1998.
David Phelan will lead the Irish Mist’s growth and development as CEO of the Old Canal Quay Spirits company. He is backed by investors including Pat Rigney, and Tom Cleary, who owns The Temple Bar in Dublin, along with US-based premium wine and spirits company Blue Ridge Spirits and Wine marketing.
Both Phelan and Rigney have a strong connection to the famous Irish whiskey liqueur, having worked together developing and growing the brand after it was sold to C&C in the 1980s.
The US is the biggest market for Irish Mist, which was founded in the 1940s.
David Phelan said that Irish Mist Liqueur was at the core of Ireland’s rich spirits history, unique heritage, and remarkable character.
Allan Latts, co-president of Heaven Hill Brands, said that Irish Mist is an iconic Irish liqueur, and the right move is placing it in the hands of an owner with Irish roots and the focus to grow it the way it deserves.
“As we invest behind our premium portfolio, this decision reflects the disciplined thinking that guides how we approach every brand in our lineup,” he added.
