West Cork Distillers is owned by three childhood friends who share a passion for Irish whiskey – John O'Connell, Denis McCarthy, and Ger McCarthy. These three individuals founded the distillery in 2003 and have been instrumental in its growth and success over the years.
John, Denis, and Ger grew up together in Skibbereen, a small town in County Cork, Ireland. They have a deep connection to their local community and wanted to create something that would not only benefit themselves but also the people around them. Thus, West Cork Distillers was born.
The ownership structure of West Cork Distillers is unique in that it is not owned by a large corporation or conglomerate. Instead, it is a true grassroots endeavor, built and run by the people, for the people. This is evident in the distillery's mission to create high-quality Irish whiskey that is accessible and enjoyed by whiskey enthusiasts worldwide.
The three friends have been involved in every aspect of the business, from sourcing the finest ingredients to overseeing the distillation process. They are deeply passionate about their craft and take great pride in the products they create. Their hands-on approach and personal involvement in the day-to-day operations of the distillery have helped to shape the company's identity and establish its reputation for excellence.
Over the years, West Cork Distillers has grown substantially, and the team has expanded to include over 100 employees. However, the core values and principles that John, Denis, and Ger established when they first started the distillery remain at the heart of the company. They continue to be actively involved in the decision-making process and are committed to maintaining the distillery's heritage and tradition.
As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the opportunity to visit West Cork Distillers and meet with John, Denis, and Ger. Their dedication to their craft and their community is truly inspiring. They have created a distillery that not only produces exceptional Irish whiskey but also supports the local economy and provides employment opportunities for the people of Skibbereen.
West Cork Distillers is owned by three childhood friends – John O'Connell, Denis McCarthy, and Ger McCarthy. Their personal connection to each other and their local community has played a significant role in shaping the distillery's identity and success. They are deeply involved in every aspect of the business and have built a team of passionate individuals who share their commitment to producing outstanding Irish whiskey.