This week saw the Irish Spirits Association host the inaugural meeting of the country's gin producers.
The event provided a forum to converse about the key factors currently affecting the gin industry in Ireland.
After the meeting, those present proclaimed that their number one priority was to support the creation of a legally-recognised standard for Irish gin. Managing director of The Shed Distillery Pat Rigney was elected chair of the new group, while the Department of Agriculture and Food was also represented at the meeting, where regulatory issues impacting producers were discussed.
Speaking about the meeting, head of the Irish Spirits Association William Lavelle, said: "Recent years have seen a resurgence in the market for gin as consumers seek to try out different brands. Consumers are looking at new combinations for which this age-old product can complement modern tastes. In Ireland, this resurgence in interest has been matched by an explosion in the number of brands of Irish gin producers, with over 30 Irish brands now on the market."
He added: "While the domestic market has been key to this growth, competition and innovation in the sector is also leading to export growth opportunities. Many Irish gin producers are working with Bord Bia to enter new markets and increase their exports. The Irish Spirits Association is working to support the continued growth of Irish spirits exports in line with the FoodWise 2025 strategy."
