Hailing from County Wicklow on the eastern edge of Ireland, Powerscourt Distillery has emerged as a beacon of innovation in the Irish Whiskey industry. Founded in 2018, the distillery exemplifies a fresh approach to Irish whiskey, combining historical reverence with modern craftsmanship.

Three of their whiskies, Fercullen Falls Blended Whiskey, Fercullen Single Malt, and Fercullen Single Cask Single Grain 13-20 Years all were named best in category at the 2025 World Whiskies Awards. Each will continue in the judging to see which whiskies are deemed the World’s Best.

At the helm of this venture is John Cashman, a seasoned industry veteran whose vision is reshaping the narrative of Irish whisky in the contemporary market. He was just named the 100^th inductee into the World Whiskey Hall of Fame, the first Irish inductee in the Irish Whiskey category. I recently sat down with Cashman for a deep dive into the future of one of the world’s oldest whiskey markets and how Powerscourt is helping to drive change while maintaining vital connections to the industries past.

A New Era for Irish Whiskey

Powerscourt Distillery is situated near the iconic Powerscourt Estate, a location rich in heritage. For Cashman, this ground is not just a production site; it's a stage for telling a broader story. “Fercullen Irish Whiskey, named after Ireland’s highest waterfall, which is located on our estate, is special. It embodies the history of our location and allows consumers to experience a piece of our heritage in each sip,” he says, highlighting the connection between the whiskey and the landscape from which it springs.

Cashman previously worked with Jamerson and most notably at the revolutionary Cooley Distillery, the first new distillery to open in Ireland in over a century. His experience there laid the groundwork for his aspirations with Powerscourt. “At Cooley, we pioneered a new perception of Irish whiskey globally. Now, we’re building on that legacy at Powerscourt.”

Quality Over Quantity

In an increasingly competitive market, Cashman emphasizes the importance of differentiation from existing brands to help his whiskeys stand out. “We focus on quality, sustainability, and innovation. Our aim is to not pump out whiskey for sales sake but to create something memorable that resonates with drinkers and expands what Irish Whiskey can be. We’re moving beyond age statements so common to create a diverse range of flavors that highlight liquid consistency.” This commitment signifies a departure from traditional norms, a bold strategy aiming to redefine consumer expectations.

The art of blending plays a crucial role in achieving this quality. Cashman describes blending as storytelling through flavor, where each note has its place in the narrative. As the Head of Drand & New Product Development Cashman works closely with Paul Corbett, Powerscourt’s Master Distiller and Blender. “I oversee the blending of Fercullen Falls to maintain its unique character. Each release must connect with our identity as a distillery,” he states, underscoring the meticulous craftsmanship involved in every bottle.

Navigating Global Waters

Fercullen has not only been received well domestically but has also made its mark internationally. Cashman recalls the excitement of introducing Irish whiskey in a global context. “It’s surreal to discuss our whiskey in cities like Tokyo, Frankfurt and Hong Cong, the response has been overwhelmingly positive. We’ve fostered relationships worldwide, and Fercullen is becoming recognized both in Ireland and beyond.”

This global outreach represents more than just marketing; it is about instilling cultural pride in the whiskey. “Whiskey is not merely a drink; it’s a significant part of our culture and identity,” asserts Cashman. His commitment to connecting with a younger generation eager to learn about the origins of Irish whiskey speaks volumes about the evolving landscape.

Preparing for the Future

Currently, Powerscourt has a production capacity of 300,000 liters annually, with over 25,000 casks laid down aging right now, but Cashman is ambitious. “With the right investments and innovative practices, we aim to scale up to a million liters,” he reveals. This expansion signifies a commitment not just to growth but to maintaining the quality that has become synonymous with the name Fercullen.

Central to this growth strategy is a focus on sustainability. “As we expand, we must ensure our practices respect the land and uphold the traditions of whiskey-making. We want to create a legacy—not just for our distillery but for the future of Irish whiskey as a whole,” Cashman emphasizes, reflecting a broader trend in the industry toward eco-conscious practices.

The Power of Storytelling

In the realm of spirits, storytelling is a powerful tool. Cashman understands that each bottle of Fercullen is an opportunity to engage consumers on a deeper level. “Inviting people into our journey allows them to feel a part of our legacy,” he explains. This philosophy fosters a sense of community, where consumers are not merely purchasers but participants in the distillery’s narrative.

Cashman provided a fitting summary of Powerscourt’s mission towards the end of our conversation. “Fercullen embodies our commitment to nurturing relationships, honoring our past, and shaping our future. Each sip reflects this dedication, and we invite everyone to experience our story.”

Fercullen, along with several other up and coming Irish distillers, Boann Distillery, Blackwater Distillery and Waterford Distillery, are effecting a shift in the Irish whiskey industry. With over 50 distillers operating inside the country, most of them new to the scene, times are changing in a country famous for their blended whiskeys made by just a few brands.

Powerscourt Distillery is not just crafting exceptional whiskey; it’s fostering a cultural legacy that resonates with a global audience. The story of Fercullen is one of rebirth, tradition, and innovation, poised to make significant waves in the world of whiskey. The future looks bright for Powerscourt and Fercullen, promising an exciting chapter in the rich narrative of Irish whiskey

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