Drogheda's Boann Distillery has helped craft a landmark blended whisky to celebrate The British and Irish Lions partnership.

Named after the year of the Lions' founding, 1888 is a luxury blend that unites grains and malts from five distilleries across Ireland and Britain.

These include Platin Road-based Boann, Echlinville (Northern Ireland), Cameronbridge (Scotland), White Peak (England), and Penderyn (Wales), each bringing a unique character to a truly unified dram. 

With just 1,888 individually numbered bottles released, 1888 aims to offer fans a tangible piece of Lions and whisky history in this rare collaboration.

It was launched to mark Scottish company, Patron Saint Whisky’s appointment as an Official Supplier to The British & Irish Lions Men’s Team. 

Patron Saint collaborates with esteemed distilleries across Ireland and Britain to create exceptional whiskies that celebrate heritage and unity.

"We are immensely proud to contribute to the creation of 1888,” said Pat Cooney, founder of family-run Boann Distillery.

“This whisky is more than a blend - it’s a symbol of unity and the exceptional craftsmanship found in each of the four unions.

“The Lions represent the pinnacle of sporting achievement and tradition, and it’s an honour for Boann to be part of this iconic partnership."

Crafted using an array of special casks – including Oloroso Sherry, Mourvèdre, Red Wine, and First-fill Bourbon – 1888 delivers a luxurious sensory experience. 

On the nose, it reveals sweet vanilla, tangy citrus and baked fruit, followed by layers of summer berries, butterscotch and lightly toasted nuts on the palate. 

The 2025 British & Irish Lions tour to Australia began with a home fixture in Dublin on June 20, with Andy Farrell's men suffering defeat to Argentina  in a thrilling tour match.

A series of high-profile matches Down Under this month will culminate in a three-Test series against the Wallabies, starting this Saturday. (July19)

The release of 1888 has been supported by Lions legends John Rutherford and Craig Chalmers, both praising its craftsmanship and its connection to the spirit of the Lions.

“Just as every Lion who pulls on that jersey contributes to its enduring legacy, every dram of '1888' reflects the careful crafting and dedication that defines a Lion,” said Rutherford.

Ben Calveley, CEO of The British & Irish Lions, said: “I am pleased to welcome Patron Saint to the Lions family and hope that our fans enjoy their unique whisky whilst they cheer on the team this summer.”

To purchase one of the limited bottles of 1888, visit www.patronsaintwhisky.com.