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Walsh Whiskey’s Co-Founder and Managing Director, Bernard Walsh, was among eight individuals recognised for their outstanding contributions to the Irish whiskey industry at the Irish Whiskey Association’s Chairman’s Awards ceremony which took place in Dublin, Ireland, on 18 November.
Drinks Ireland | Irish Whiskey Association is the representative association for the Irish whiskey industry. The Association’s Chairman’s Awards take place biennially and were, this year, awarded by Chairman John Quinn, Global Brand Ambassador for Tullamore Dew. The awards recognise the people, distilleries and industry partners that have made an outstanding contribution to the development of the Irish whiskey industry and category. Bernard Walsh has played a leading role in the establishment of the Drinks Ireland | Irish Whiskey Association.
Making the award to Bernard Walsh, John Quinn said: “Bernard developed the successful Writer’s Tears’ and The Irishman brands which have attracted international sales success. In doing so, Bernard paved the way for the expansion and global growth of premium brands from new entrants to the top of our industry. Bernard was also a founder and a former Chairman of the Irish Whiskey Association and during his term he oversaw the publication of the ‘Vision for Irish Whiskey’ strategy. For all of these reasons, and more, he is a most worthy recipient of this award.”
Accepting his award, Bernard Walsh said: “I’ve been lucky in the people I’ve worked with from the start, people better and more knowledgeable than myself, who stretched me and allowed me to grow into the industry. From our employees, some who have been with me from the start over 20 years ago, to our highly experienced Board of Directors. It’s amazing what can be achieved with a few good people. Not least my wife Rosemary for her 23 years of tireless work. This is an award as much for Rosemary as it is for myself.”
The Walsh Whiskey and the whole team at Amber Beverage Group are delighted for Bernard, Rosemary and their family and congratulate him on his well-deserved recognition for his outstanding contribution to the Irish whiskey industry to date. Together we look forward to exciting times ahead for Irish Whiskey.