Patrick J Rigney, founder of Drumshanbo Gunpowder Irish Gin, has invested in Changing Times Brewery, the newly launched brewery in Glasnevin, Dublin backed by the families behind some of Dublin’s best known pubs.
Rigney will join the brewery as Chair, with his involvement bringing its total investment to over €2 million. The investment is Rigney’s first involvement in a brewery.
“I was greatly flattered when I was asked to get involved in Changing Times Brewery, which I think represents a real innovation in the Irish beer market," said Rigney."What attracted me was the family dimension of this business, which very much aligns with our values in The Shed Distillery."
Patrick J Rigney is the founder and owner of The Shed Distillery of PJ Rigney, which is behind brands such as Drumshanbo Gunpowder Irish Gin, Drumshanbo Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey, and Sausage Tree Pure Irish Vodka.
Prior to founding The Shed Distillery with his wife Denise, Rigney was involved in Baileys during its formative years. As executive director, Rigney went on to invent the twin-bottle Sheridan’s Irish Cream Liqueur.
He has since gone on to invent over 20 other international drinks brands including the Boru Vodka/Castle Brands which developed a range of spirits brands before exiting in 2005 through an IPO on the AMEX (NY, USA) with a valuation of over $100 million (€95 million). Rigney owns Fastnet Brands, co-founded the Dalcassian Wine & Spirits and is an investor in Ovelle Pharmaceuticals, Horseware Products Ltd and the Walsh Distillery Company.
Changing Times was launched in November with two initial products, Daydreamer Lager and After Hours Pale Ale. As well as Rigney, it is backed by brewer Shane Long, publican Benny McCabe and the publican families behind The Ferryman, The Palace, The Long Hall, The Swan, Darkey Kellys, The Bankers, Arthur Maynes in Donnybrook, Devitts, Doheny & Nesbitts, Sheehans, Lemon & Duke, The Bridge 1859, The Blackrock, The Bank and McSorleys.
Initially the new beers are being stocked in the pubs of the founding members, with further pubs expected to be announced soon.
"It is absolutely fantastic to have a man of Patrick’s experience, creativity, innovation, connections and more join Changing Times," said Marcus Houlihan of The Long Hall.
"Everyone involved in the drinks’ industry recognises what a titan he is and his history of achievement."
