I.W. Harper is indeed a brand that has seen discontinuation in the past. The brand was originally established in the late 19th century and gained popularity over the years. However, like many other whiskey brands, I.W. Harper faced challenges and changes in ownership that eventually led to its discontinuation.
In the case of I.W. Harper, the brand's owner, Schenley Industries, was eventually bought over by United Distillers, which later became Diageo. During this transition, many brands underwent changes, and unfortunately, I.W. Harper was one of them that was discontinued in the 1980s.
The decision to discontinue a brand like I.W. Harper is often influenced by various factors, such as market trends, profitability, and strategic decisions made by the new owners. Although it may be disappointing for fans and enthusiasts of the brand, these decisions are often made to ensure the overall success and profitability of the company.
It is worth noting that discontinuation does not necessarily mean that the brand is completely gone forever. In some cases, discontinued brands can experience a revival or re-launch in the future. Whiskey brands, in particular, have seen a resurgence in recent years, with many old and forgotten labels being brought back to market due to increased interest and demand.
In the case of I.W. Harper, there have been instances where the brand has made a comeback. In the early 2000s, I.W. Harper was reintroduced to the Japanese market, where it gained popularity and success. This led to the brand being available in select international markets again.
However, it is important to note that the availability of I.W. Harper may vary depending on the region and market. It may not be widely available or easily accessible in some areas. Whisky enthusiasts and collectors often turn to auctions or specialized retailers to find discontinued or hard-to-find bottles.
I.W. Harper was indeed discontinued in the 1980s when Schenley Industries was acquired by United Distillers, which eventually became Diageo. However, there have been instances of the brand making a comeback in certain markets, and its availability may vary. As with many discontinued whiskey brands, the interest and demand among collectors and enthusiasts can drive the availability of such bottles in the secondary market.