Northern Irish whiskey wins at Scottish Whisky Festival in Rome

A single malt whiskey from Derry in Northern Ireland has become the first to win a major award in the Spirit of Scotland Whisky Festival in Rome. The Quiet Man 8-year old single malt from Derry collected the International category in the whisky industry's biggest and most important event in Italy.

The two-day Spirit of Scotland Whisky Festival in Rome is a springboard for distillers seeking growth in one of Europe's key markets.

Michael Morris, director of sales at The Quiet Man Distillery, which is based in Derry city, commenting on the award at the Spirit of Scotland Whisky Festival, says: "To win this award in a blind tasting against the very best whisky brands from Scotland, Ireland, Japan and the US was indeed a tremendous honour.

"The award gives us great confidence to know that our whiskey is every bit as good as we think it is. It's a marvellous endorsement of The Quiet Man 8-year old single malt," he adds.

The award in Rome is the latest success for the company which is currently building a £12 million distillery in Derry. The Quiet Man Irish whiskey is now on the shelves in 24 countries worldwide including the US, where it is being distributed by Luxco of St Louis, Missouri.

Significant business is also being developed in key European markets. The Quiet Man single malt has won international awards and was recently named 'Dram of the Year' by The Whisky Lounge.

The Spirit of Scotland Festival brought together experts and enthusiasts and 200 brands. It featured ten master classes on various topics, five mixology seminars and ten international guests working in the sector were present.

The festival was launched in 2012 by Scottish whiskey enthusiasts in Italy to celebrate the spirit. The event was devoted to promoting and encouraging the spread of a responsible malt whisky drinking culture through a blend of business, education, and entertainment.

Spirit of Scotland has emerged as one of Italy's most important drinks sector events and is swiftly affirming its brand name - a quality trademark that supports and fosters interaction among the industry's strategic players. It is held annually in Rome's Salone Delle Fontane.