In a move that underscores the global resurgence of Irish whiskey, the historic brand Dunville’s has officially secured a strategic distribution agreement to launch its award-winning portfolio across India. By partnering with HS Oberoi Spirits, one of India’s premier alcohol importers, Dunville’s – produced by The Echlinville Distillery – aims to capture a share of the world’s largest and most dynamic whiskey-consuming market.
Founded in 1808, Dunville’s was once among the most famous whiskey brands in the world, often referred to as "The Spirit of Belfast." However, following the closure of the Royal Irish Distilleries in the 1930s, the brand vanished for nearly 80 years.
Since its revival in 2012 by The Echlinville Distillery, Dunville’s has reclaimed its status at the pinnacle of the industry. The brand is a three-time winner of Ireland’s Best Whiskey (2022, 2023, and 2025), a pedigree that it now brings to Indian consumers who are increasingly trading up to premium, craft, and heritage-led spirits.
The partnership with HS Oberoi Spirits is designed for scale and precision. Rather than a blanket national launch, the rollout will focus on key territories known for their high consumption of premium spirits and robust "off-trade" and "on-trade" (hospitality) sectors. The initial distribution will cover:
Stephen Magennis, Head of Global Sales at Dunville’s, noted that India’s consumers are becoming "increasingly discerning," seeking out authenticity and quality—traits that align with Dunville’s reputation for exceptional single malts and unique sherry cask finishes.
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The timing of this deal is no coincidence. India is currently the world’s largest whiskey market by volume, but the real story lies in the "premiumization" trend. As the middle class expands and consumer palates evolve, there is a surging demand for international single malts and aged blends.
Manveer Singh Oberoi, founder of HS Oberoi Spirits, highlighted that India stands at a "convergence of scale and sophistication." The goal of the partnership is not merely to secure retail listings but to build a sustainable, long-term brand presence that resonates with the Indian "whiskey connoisseur."
While the full portfolio is expected to roll out in stages, Dunville’s is best known for its:
The entry of Dunville’s into India represents more than just a business deal; it is a testament to the global "Irish Whiskey Renaissance." By pairing a 200-year-old legacy with the market expertise of HS Oberoi Spirits, The Echlinville Distillery is positioning Dunville’s to become a staple in India’s luxury spirits landscape.
As trade relations between Ireland and India continue to strengthen, and with a potential UK-India Free Trade Agreement (FTA) on the horizon that could further reduce tariffs, the arrival of "The Spirit of Belfast" marks the beginning of what could be the brand’s most successful international chapter yet.
