In The Irish Spirits Report 2017, sales of spirits in Ireland grew by 4.6% in 2017. Three-quarters of Irish spirits are bought through the off-trade, while the most value comes from the on-trade.

The value of spirits exports in the Republic of Ireland increased by 13.8%. Spirits are now one of Ireland’s leading agri-food export categories.

Global sales of Ireland’s three geographical indications (GI) spirits – Irish whiskey, Irish cream, and Poitín – totaled 17.2 cases or 207 million bottles last year. The US remains the largest market for Irish spirits.

Vodka remains the country’s most popular spirit (33.2%), followed by Irish whiskey (24.4%), and gin (11.2%).

Gin was the fastest-growing spirit, up by 47.2%, while sales of premium Irish whiskey grew by 40% in 2017 as consumers make “more conscientious choices about what they drink”.

The Irish cream liqueur category witnessed 5.6% growth last year.

Patricia Callan, director of Alcohol Beverage Federation of Ireland (ABFI), said: “This report showcases the dynamism within the Irish spirits sector, the sector is offering Irish consumer an extensive choice of high-quality products which are loved all around the world.”

“In Ireland, last year sales of Irish whiskey were up 5%, but sales of more expensive premium whiskeys were up over 40%. We are seeing Irish people moving from volume-based consumption to more conscientious value-based consumption.”

“This proves that the people of Ireland are already leading the way when it comes responsible consumption. Alcohol consumption has declined by over 23% since 2003, according to the CSO and Revenue Commissioner data.

“This is happening in the absence of the Public Health Alcohol Bill. While we support the objectives of the bill, some of its measures are excessive, disproportionate; and in some cases, just ludicrous.

Read More at source: The Spirits Business