Pogues

Halewood International has gone into business with Ireland’s most famous folk-punk band, having bought a 50% stake in The Pogues Irish Whiskey, the Liverpool-based drinks company announced yesterday (16 March).

With the sale having been completed last month, The Pogues’ current seven members - Shane MacGowan, Jem Finer, Andrew Ranken, Spider Stacy, James Fearnley, Terry Woods and Darryl Hunt - retain the other 50% ownership of the spirit, which has been distributed by Halewood International since its launch in July last year.

Developed by the independent West Cork Distillers, the spirit is a blend of 10-year-old single malt Irish whiskey aged in sherry oak casks, seven-year-old single malt Irish whiskey aged in bourbon oak casks, and four-year-old Irish grain whiskey aged in bourbon oak casks.

“This acquisition further strengthens our close partnership with West Cork Distillers,” said Halewood International CEO Stewart Hainsworth, who saw his company’s sales plunge 14.4% to £231.1m its 2015 financial year, leading to a loss of £8.2m.

“The Pogues Irish Whiskey is a premium whiskey that adds its own distinct, rebellious character to our spirits portfolio.”