Sazerac Company, owner of Buffalo Trace, has expanded its footprint in Irish whiskey with the acquisition and rebranding of the Lough Gill distillery in County Sligo, Ireland.
Lough Gill Distillery Renamed Hawk’s Rock to Reflect New Vision
In June 2022, Sazerac acquired the Lough Gill distillery. Earlier this year in April, the distillery was renamed Hawk’s Rock. The new name reflects Sazerac’s vision for Irish whiskey — blending art and science, innovation, and honoring Sligo’s rich traditions.
Previously known for the Athrú Irish Whiskey range, the distillery has now introduced its first whiskey under the Sazerac name, called Garavogue.
Garavogue: A Tribute to Sligo’s Heritage
Garavogue is named after the river flowing through the distillery into the Atlantic Ocean. It represents Sazerac’s commitment to world-class distilling, aging, and blending.
Helen Mulholland, former master blender at Bushmills, crafted this whiskey. Jess Scheerhorn, Vice President of Sazerac, said, “Garavogue aims to create new experiences, connections, and traditions, sip by sip. The Garavogue River has shaped this landscape for thousands of years, and we hope whiskey lovers will explore its untold stories.”
Small Batch Whiskey Series Focuses on Innovation
Garavogue launches as part of Hawk’s Rock’s Small Batch Whiskey Series. This series will feature limited and experimental releases showcasing different ages, maturation styles, and whiskey types.
First Release: Garavogue 20 Year Old Single Malt
The inaugural release is Garavogue 20 Year Old, a double-distilled Irish single malt. It is aged for at least 14 years in American bourbon oak barrels and then finished in French Muscat, French Sauternes, Spanish Pedro Ximénez Sherry, and Barbados Rum barrels.
Mulholland noted, “While many whiskies favor rich sherry finishes today, Garavogue offers a different approach. It combines complexity and subtlety beautifully. The wide range of casks works like a flowing river, bringing flavors together harmoniously.”
Tasting Notes and Availability
At 47% ABV, Garavogue 20 Year Old offers flavors of vanilla, peach, marshmallow, floral hints, and a touch of raisin. The palate balances vanilla and citrus with buttery ripe apple and fresh fruit aromas.
Garavogue will be available in limited quantities starting June 2025. The suggested retail price is $199 for a 700ml bottle.
The release will be offered duty-free in the US, Ireland, and the UK through Sazerac’s dealer network. Select editions will also be sold via Sazerac’s global platform Legacy de Forge, powered by BlockBar.
Sazerac’s Growing Irish Whiskey Portfolio
In addition to Hawk’s Rock, Sazerac also owns the Paddy’s Irish Whiskey brand, further strengthening its presence in the Irish whiskey market.
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