Distillery switches to a 24/7 operation to cater for its growing client base

County Down’s Hinch Distillery is ramping up its production lines as global and domestic demand for its products surge.

The distillery, which also produces the Ninth Wave Gin brand, formerly operated a five-day week model but will now switch to a 24/7 operation to cater for its growing client base.

New, longer production times will see Hinch increase its whiskey production from 400,000 to 1m litres of pure alcohol (LPA), which is equal to 8000 casks or the equivalent of 3.5m bottles annually.

Meanwhile, gin production will see 440,000 litres of pure alcohol (LPA) which is the equivalent of 1.7m bottles annually.

It has also invested in three additional washbacks from distilling equipment experts, Forsyths in Scotland, while MW Control Solutions Limited have supplied the newest technology for whiskey production.

Richard E Forsyth (Junior), said: “Forsyths are delighted to be appointed by Hinch Distillery for their expansion project. It’s very positive for the burgeoning Irish market to see a fledgling distillery pushing their capacity so soon after inception.”

Ten new members will join the Hinch team as a result of its new expansion plans.

Dr Terry Cross OBE, chairman of Hinch Distillery, explained: “We are delighted with the demand for our whiskey products, which are, by industry standards still in their infancy.

“Our products have quickly gained momentum in a world of whiskey lovers, rising through the ranks to become a respected competitor in the fine Irish Whiskey category. Our growth is organic and in line with our ever-expanding markets.

“We are pleased to see that Irish Whiskey, as a category, is enjoying increased popularity and we really feel we have cornered some of the most valuable markets. For Hinch, the only way is up, and we will continue to meet the current and future demand for high quality, premium Irish Whiskey and Irish Gin worldwide. We are going to capitalise on this growth and we also have plans to expand our super premium product offering.

“Interest in Irish Whiskey tourism has grown over the last 12 months, boosting employment and investment throughout Ireland.”

Michael Morris, international sales director, Hinch Distillery, continued: “Our move to grow our distillery is a result of current demand and we expect that to grow over the next five years.

“Our product portfolio is reaching no less than 30 global markets, boosting NI’s reputation as a producer of fine whiskey while our collection has attracted multiple international awards.”

William Stafford, head distiller, Hinch Distillery, added: “The expansion will take us from 400,000 LPA to 1m LPA showing our commitment to the Irish Whiskey Industry. This development will not only enable the team to continue producing Irish whiskey but it will mean greater flexibility as we experiment with mixed grain bills and cask types.

“Consumers will reap the rewards of new and innovative Irish whiskey when our new make spirit becomes whiskey in 2024, the first spirit distilled here integrated into our diverse portfolio. Irish Whiskey is still one of the fastest growing spirits in the world and we look forward to the future with the news of this expansion which will enable the team to keep up with the ever- growing demand.”