In episode 5 of our second series, I talk to two coopers working in different areas of the Irish whiskey trade. Wood is such an important part of the whiskey making process and without good quality casks we would not have all the wonderfully diverse brands of whiskey available to try. 

Ger Buckley probably needs no introduction. He is a 5th generation cooper working at Midleton Distillery and has been a great ambassador for the distillery and Irish whiskey in general. I was struck by his wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm for art of coopering, I have no doubt you will enjoy our conversation.

In the second part of this episode we get an alternative viewpoint from a fairly new cooperage and their lead cooper Ian Leonard. Kentucky Bourbon Barrel opened their premises in Newbridge last year and are already servicing dozens of distilleries and whiskey bonders around the country. It was a refreshing turn in the conversation to hear about a new company hitting the ground running and I have no doubt the company will go from strength to strength. 

Many thanks to everyone who helped in getting this podcast recorded, and special thanks to Ger and Ian for taking time out of their busy schedules.