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Do you want to uncover the hidden history behind Patrick's tower and pear tree in Irish whiskey production? Wondering how these landmarks have shaped the heritage of this beloved spirit? Our guests Lora Hemy, Colin Martin, and Josh Cameron, are here to share the solution. By delving into the historical significance of Patrick's tower and pear tree, and the historic tale of their distilleries name sake; these three will provide an enlightening exploration of the rich traditions and cultural importance that have contributed to the exceptional quality of Roe & Co. Irish whiskey. Get ready to embark on a journey that unravels the mysteries and celebrates the legacy of these iconic symbols in the world of whiskey.
Delve into the rich past of Irish whiskey making with an enlightening exploration into the history of the Roe & Co. Distillery. Trace the origins of this iconic name from the purchase of a small distillery on Thomas Street by Peter Roe in 1757, to its evolution under George Roe, making it the largest Irish whiskey producing whiskey distillery of its time. Immerse yourself in this engaging narrative, which showcases resilience amidst the decline of Irish whiskey and the ultimate revival of the Roe name by Diageo.
In the world of Irish whiskey, history often hides unexpected treasures. One such treasure lies in the heart of Dublin, where a tower and a pear tree intertwine in a tale that will leave you spellbound. As we delve into the depths of this captivating story, prepare to be transported back in time to an era of innovation, tradition, and the unforeseen. Brace yourself for a journey that will uncover the secrets of Patrick's tower and the pear tree, a story that will leave you yearning for more.
Say hello to my first guest, Josh Cameron! Josh's dedication to whiskey distilleries was sparked before the pandemic. The learnings from that particular phase led him to becoming the brand ambassador for Roe & Co. His animated journey from an enthusiast to a connoisseur saw Josh connecting dots from Patrick's tower to the significance of the pear tree in Irish whiskey production.
Meet my second guest, Colin Martin! The go-to person for the most inspirational tours at Roe & Co. He turned his calling into his career. With his deep reverence for history and an undying love for Irish whiskey, Colin is the perfect storyteller. His traces the history waypoints and individual tales add dimensions to the Irish whiskey landscape that only a few can master. He sheds light on the hidden corners that have shaped the legacy of Irish whiskey.
Illuminating our conversation with vivid tales from within the whiskey barrel is my final guest, Laura Hemy. As Head Distiller at Rowan Co., Laura's journey has traversed through unique, unforeseen avenues, leading up to the distinctive echelons of whiskey distillation. Laura's background in the arts has primed her perception to detect and appreciate the subtle notes and layers of complexity that make each glass of whiskey a unique experience. Her vibrant story is a testament to the unpredictability of life’s paths and the magic that lies in the detours.
By walking down one of the most historic streets in the history of brewing and distilling, you can't say no to being part of that history and an amazing project - Lora Hemy
Learn Fermentation Processes
This episode unearths the scientific subtleties behind the art of whiskey making, particularly the fermentation process. It delves into how the unique flavors of Irish whiskey are drawn out during this crucial stage, offering intriguing insights into the meticulous processes used in its production. Lora's enthusiastic sharing about the fun and transformative nature of fermentation instills a deepened appreciation for the nuanced craft of whiskey making.
In this episode, you will be able to:
Explore the rich and innovative flavors that set Rowan Co.'s whiskey offerings a class apart.
The resources mentioned in this episode are:
Nov 6 & 7, 2023 11.30am-4pm at CARL HANSEN & SØN, 251 Park Avenue South
Dec 4 & 5, 2023, 10am-2.30pm at Worthwild, 156 9th Avenue,
Roe & Co is a new contemporary blend, named to honor the memory of a whiskey-maker whose distillery was in its time the largest in Ireland.
George Roe & Co helped build the golden era of Irish whiskey in the 19th century. Their distillery at Thomas Street in Dublin extended over 17 acres and they were Ireland's largest exporter of whiskey. As neighbors for hundreds of years George Roe & Co and Guinness were the two biggest names at the heart of Dublin’s historic brewing and distilling quarter.4
However the amazing story of George Roe, his family and their famous whiskies, has largely been lost to history since the distillery closed its gates in 1926, and all that remains is the distillery windmill tower and a pear tree that flowers to this day.
The pear tree
The tower and the pear tree sit directly across from the famous St. James’s Gate Guinness Brewery as a reminder of George Roe’s former prominence in the city's life and now as a source of inspiration for the new whiskey.
The golden age of Irish whiskey
Now, decades after the Roe distillery finally closed its gates, Irish whiskey is on the cusp of another golden age. Today there is a resurgence of interest in Irish Whiskey and the Thomas Street area is once again becoming a vibrant hub of brewing and distilling in Dublin.
Roe & Co is at the heart of this new vibrancy, celebrating the memory of George Roe, a true pioneer who helped build the original golden era of Irish whiskey.
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The key moments in this episode are:
00:00:00 - Introduction and Overview,
00:01:35 - History of the Roe family
00:02:25 - Distillery Tour and Experiences,
00:03:08 - Tasting and Creator Series,
00:12:05 - Whiskey Journey and Gin Distilleries,
00:15:21 - Qualifications and Talent in the Business,
00:16:01 - Current and Future Projects,
00:17:53 - Working Relationship with the Open Gate Brewery,
00:19:32 - Future Plans for Roe & Co.
00:20:32 - Favorite Part of the Distilling Process,
00:29:09 - The Story of Patrick's Tower,
00:29:38 - The Secret Ingredient,
00:30:05 - Thanking the Guest,
00:30:16 - Final Thoughts,
Head Distiller at Roe & Co Irish whiskey
With a creative background that has drawn her to combine interests in flavour, aroma, sensory perception and distilled beverages; particularly as a distiller and product development specialist with a focus on innovation. An alumni of the prestigious Heriot-Watt University Lora has spent time working and researching in several countries and is currently utilising her wide skill set at the Roe & Co Distillery.
She has worked with distillation at volume production scale and for smaller craft distilleries, including assisting with plant design and product development, production planning and site specification (Atom Brands & Halewood Wines and Spirits). There is also that glorious feature in a BBC documentary about the whisky industry.
Lora has visited many, many distilleries, breweries, wineries and perfumeries in a range of markets across Europe and worldwide including New Zealand, Australia, Indonesia, Taiwan, Vietnam, Thailand, India, Pakistan, Egypt, Afghanistan and Iran. Travel and research are central to her understanding of plant and product
development.
Special interests include whisky blending, sensory perception and networking, fermentation engineering and distilled beverage technology, production, and development. That said she is equally comfortable presenting to an audience and spreading her enthusiasm for world spirits. When she is not creating or researching
spirits, she has a love of coffee and records.
US NATIONAL AMBASSADOR FOR ROE & CO IRISH WHISKEY
As the US National Ambassador for Roe & Co Irish Whiskey, Josh Cameron travels around the US sharing his love
for whiskey with everyone he connects with! In his current role, Josh serves as the go-to brand expert, meaning
he leads tastings and trainings, hosts sampling events and more in an e ort to introduce people to Roe & Co as
a new, quality Irish Whiskey with historic roots.
Before joining Roe & Co, Josh grew up in Pennsylvania close to the hospitality industry, and it’s remained an
important part of his life ever since. Josh’s passions for creating and connecting eventually led him to become a
Head Bartender in the heart of Manhattan where he credits his experience as a bartender with helping mold both
his career and his outlook on life.
With his combined artistic and cocktail background, Josh aims to reinvent the Irish Whiskey category with
unbelievable cocktails, impactful conversations and lasting memories that carry us into the future.
Season 2 started off with a bang! Our first stop was the Dingle Distillery in County Kerry, Ireland where we spent three days at a proper Irish Gathering. We explore the town, the people, the whiskey and learn a lot about real Irish Pubs and old Pagan traditions. Interviews include Dingle's Master Distiller, Graham Coull, his wife Fay, Steven O'Carroll and Hunter Leese from Hotaling & Co.
