Since co-founding Glendalough Distillery in 2011 - and helping guide the company through its acquisition by Mark Anthony Brands International in 2019 - Donal O’Gallachoir (below) has more than played his part in the recent development of the Irish whiskey category. Today, he’s head of commercial operations in the US with Cobblestone Brands, the brand owner and developer that he co-founded five years ago.
You’ve spent much of your career in the spirits industry, particularly in Irish whiskey. What is it about the category that appeals to you?
I grew up in Irelan
‘We’ve always seen opportunity in adversity’ – Cobblestone Brands co-founder Donal O’Gallachoir speaks to Global Drinks Intel
‘We believe that growth is being driven by creative brands developing new offerings and consumers exploring how, when and what they drink.’

Maia Gosselin is an established wine educator, writer, editor and consultant. She is the owner of Sip Wine Education, a business providing private, on-premise, community and corporate wine education. Maia is also the managing editor for trade publication Massachusetts Beverage Business. A long-time beverage alcohol industry veteran, she is known for her laid-back and entertaining approach to education.



