TULLAMORE DEW whiskey could be returning home after more than half a century as William Grant and Sons is looking at the possibility of building a new distillery in the Co Offaly town.
Representatives of William Grant Sons have met Offaly County Council to explore locations for a distillery in Tullamore.
Tullamore Dew is the world’s second largest and fastest growing Irish whiskey, currently selling more than 650,000 cases (8.35 million 70cl bottles) worldwide.
Since purchasing the brand in 2010, William Grant Sons has taken control of the Tullamore Dew heritage centre at Bury Quay in the town. Work to redevelop the centre into “a top class brand experience” expected to attract 40,000 annual visitors when it opens for the 2012 tourist season has started.
According to local councillor Tommy McKeigue (FG), a decision on the establishment of a new Tullamore Dew distillery is likely to be made in the coming months.
When asked about plans for a Co Offaly site yesterday, a spokesman for Tullamore Dew said: “We have great ambitions for Tullamore Dew. We are currently looking at several options for the brand. No decision has yet been taken.”
The origins of Tullamore Dew Irish whiskey can be traced back to 1829, when the Tullamore distillery was founded in the town.