Fruity whiskeys from Newry pioneers are winning global acclaim

Spirit specialists Two Stacks in Newry has created a range of innovative whiskeys blended with fruits.

The small company, an expert blender and bonder of whiskeys from other distillers here and in the Republic of Ireland, has launched its highly original Fruit Drops Collection, a variety of which attracted an award in the prestigious World Whiskeys Ireland.

Fruit Drops is a “bold and vibrant evolution of Irish whiskey,” according to managing director Shane McCarthy, one of the three founders of Two Stacks.

“The series is crafted with precision, each expression is a masterful vatting of single casks, matured over time, and delicately cut by us to 50% ABV, Two Stacks is proud to create our highly innovative Fruit Drops Collection,” adds Shane.

The collection of whiskeys matured in casks comprises: Apricot Fruit Brandy Cask, described as “bright and juicy, bursting with ripe apricot, honeyed vanilla, and toasted almond, followed by a subtle hint of oak and citrus zest”; Apple Fruit Brandy Cask – “a crisp and refreshing, with notes of baked apple, caramelised pear, and warming cinnamon spice, balanced by a gentle malt sweetness”; and Blackberry Fruit Brandy Cask, which is “rich and velvety, offering layers ofdark berry compote, wildflower honey, and dark chocolate, with a lingering touch of spice and oak”. The spirits are available in 700ml bottles and limited 100ml cans.

The pioneering company, founded by Shane with business partners Liam Brogan and Donal McLynn in 2020, has won widespread acclaim, especially in the US, for its Dram in a Can, the first single malt Irish whiskey in a convenient can that’s proving popular in the global travel industry. Dram in a Can has won international awards for innovation.

“Our mission is to produce spirits, especially whiskey, which are different and offer original taste experiences. Our focus is on transparency, creativity, innovation and responsible business practices in line with sustainability,” adds Shane.

Two Stacks has also developed a multi-award-winning double Irish cream liquor that contains more whiskey than most other Irish creams.