Hollywood film legend Jean-Claude Van Damme launches his own Irish whiskey brand Old Oak in Belfast
Hollywood film legend Jean-Claude Van Damme is in Belfast today (Wednesday) to launch his Irish whiskey brand Old Oak.
Van Damme has been a film icon for decades, but has now taken on a different role after signing a partnership with Northern Ireland to produce craft whiskey at a distillery on the outskirts of Belfast. There is.
The martial arts action hero known as “Muscle of Brussels” discovered Old Oak Whiskey during a chance encounter with a friend and colleague.
Jean-Claude Van Damme explained: “I was looking for my own brand of whiskey, maybe an American bourbon, and one of my close friends and business associates said, ‘Why American whiskey when you can go back to the roots of whiskey?’ I asked, “Do you find an Irishman?
“He then introduced me to the Old Oak Whiskey Label, which had not yet been launched and was founded by Irish whiskey enthusiasts.
“This was also a great opportunity to combine two things I have an affinity for: whiskey and its rich heritage, and the charisma and warmth of Ireland and its people. Heavy whiskeys from around the world I liked its aroma and smooth texture compared to the previous one.
The name Old Oak comes from County Londonderry, known as ‘Oak Leaf County’.
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Renowned martial artist and actor Ian Rowlands has been appointed as Old Oak’s official brand ambassador, joining Kevin Carson from County Londonderry and Old Oak co-director and co-shareholder Ian Rowlands.
They explained: “The process of distilling Irish whiskey is more than just a craft, it is an art form steeped in history and heritage that speaks to a time when things were simpler and traditions lived on.
“This partnership with Jean-Claude Van Damme is a great fit for all parties. His interest in premium whisky, which led him to discover Old Oak, is what he discovered with us. , it’s not just a brand, it’s an emotional connection that goes beyond taste and aroma.
“Jean-Claude truly embodies the essence of our brand with his unwavering strength, extraordinary personality and unparalleled precision. His relentless pursuit of perfection and attention to detail , making him the quintessential representation of our brand.”
Kevin continued: “The strong identity of Irish-Americans in the United States has helped Irish whiskey make a comeback as their favorite whisky. But the global demand for whiskey in general has also increased the interest already Growth is expected to continue in India and the Far East.
“As consumers seek more choice, we believe that demand for whiskey across the globe will increase in general and, in turn, demand for Irish whisky, particularly for our craft premium products. Old Oak is ideally placed to take advantage of this, as it offers consumers a premium drink that is not as expensive as older aged whiskies.”
