Jameson is a blended Irish whiskey produced by the Irish Distillers subsidiary of Pernod Ricard. Originally established as one of the six main Dublin whiskeys at the Jameson Distillery Bow St., Jameson is now primarily distilled at the New Midleton Distillery in County Cork. It stands as the best-selling Irish whiskey globally, with annual sales surpassing 8 million cases as of 2019, available in over 130 countries.

Company History

Founded by John Jameson (1740 – 1823), originally a lawyer from Alloa, Scotland, Jameson established his eponymous distillery in Dublin in 1780. Marrying Margaret Haig in 1768, the eldest daughter of Scottish whisky distiller John Haig, Jameson expanded his family with 16 children. The distillery flourished under John Jameson II, who joined his father in 1805, making Jameson one of Ireland's largest producers by the early 19th century.

The 20th century saw Jameson navigating through turbulent times including the Irish War of Independence and Prohibition in the United States, impacting its export markets. In 1966, John Jameson merged with Cork Distillers and John Powers to form the Irish Distillers Group, later opening the New Midleton Distillery outside Cork in 1976.

Production Process

Jameson blends grain whiskey with single pot still whiskey, sourced from malted and unmalted Irish barley within a fifty-mile radius of the Cork distillery. Unlike Scotch whisky, which traditionally uses peat-fired kilns, Jameson employs closed kilns fired by natural gas (formerly anthracite coal), imparting a distinct flavor profile.

Awards and Recognition

Jameson's range includes the highly acclaimed Jameson 18-Year and Rarest Vintage Reserve, both receiving numerous gold and double gold medals at international spirits competitions. The brand continues to be celebrated for its quality and consistency, reflecting its longstanding heritage and craftsmanship.

Modern Operations

The original Jameson Distillery at Bow Street in Dublin now serves as a museum and visitor center, attracting whiskey enthusiasts from around the world. The Jameson Experience Visitor Centre at the Old Midleton Distillery offers tours and tastings, highlighting the brand's rich history and production methods.

In response to global events, such as the Ukrainian Ambassador's call for a boycott in 2023, Irish Distillers ceased export to Russia under its parent company's directive, aligning with international sanctions.