Let’s delve into the intriguing question of what happened to Michael Collins Whiskey. This blended Irish whiskey has been a favorite among spirits enthusiasts for its smoothness, complexity, and rich history. However, it is no longer readily available on shelves, leaving many wondering about its fate.
The Beam Acquisition
One of the key factors contributing to the disappearance of Michael Collins Whiskey is the Beam acquisition of the Cooley distillery. A few years ago, Beam purchased the Cooley distillery, which acted as the producer for Michael Collins Whiskey. This acquisition reshaped the landscape of the Irish whiskey industry.
Changes in Bottling Rights
When Beam acquired the Cooley distillery, significant changes occurred, impacting the bottling rights for many brands associated with it. As a result, Beam restricted the ability of numerous entities, including NDPs (Non-Distiller Producers) like Sidney Frank Importing Co., from independently bottling Cooley whiskey under their own brands.
The Blow to NDPs
This decision dealt a significant blow to NDPs such as Sidney Frank Importing Co., who had previously played a role in bringing Michael Collins Whiskey to consumers. Without the ability to access Cooley whiskey, these NDPs lost the opportunity to continue bottling and distributing Michael Collins Whiskey as they had done before.
A Break in the Production Chain
The break in the production chain caused by the Beam acquisition, combined with the restricted bottling rights, resulted in the discontinued availability of Michael Collins Whiskey. Since the whiskey was exclusively produced at the Cooley distillery, the changes made it impossible for NDPs to source and bottle the whiskey under the Michael Collins brand.
A Loss for Whiskey Enthusiasts
For avid fans of Michael Collins Whiskey, its disappearance from the market was undoubtedly a loss. The whiskey was known for its unique flavor profile, delightful notes of vanilla and spice, and a smooth finish. Its absence leaves a void for those who have come to appreciate its distinctive character.
The Evolving Irish Whiskey Scene
The story of Michael Collins Whiskey is not an isolated incident in the evolving world of Irish whiskey. Over the last decade, the Irish whiskey industry has undergone significant transformations, with acquisitions and consolidations becoming more commonplace among distilleries.
New Opportunities and Innovations
While the disappearance of Michael Collins Whiskey may disappoint some, it also opens up new opportunities for whiskey enthusiasts to explore the ever-expanding array of Irish whiskey brands. The changing landscape has given rise to innovative distilleries and exciting new expressions, allowing consumers to discover new favorites.
Exploring Alternatives
If you were a fan of Michael Collins Whiskey, fear not, for there are plenty of other exceptional Irish whiskeys to explore. From well-established brands like Jameson, Bushmills, and Tullamore D.E.W. to newer distilleries such as Teeling and Redbreast, the world of Irish whiskey is diverse and offers something for every palate.
Preserving the Legacy of Michael Collins
Although Michael Collins Whiskey may no longer be available, its legacy lives on in the hearts and memories of those who enjoyed its remarkable taste. The whiskey’s association with Michael Collins, the Irish revolutionary leader, immortalizes the spirit of independence, determination, and resilience.
In Conclusion
So, what happened to Michael Collins Whiskey? The acquisition of the Cooley distillery by Beam led to changes in bottling rights, severing the production chain and ultimately resulting in the discontinuation of this beloved whiskey. However, the evolving landscape of Irish whiskey presents opportunities to explore new and exciting brands while cherishing the legacy of Michael Collins and the spirit he embodied.
