Halewood International, a UK-based manufacturer and distributor of independent drinks, has announced that Halewood Group purchased 50% stake in The Pogues Irish Whiskey.

The remaining 50% stake of the Irish brand will be retained by its members Shane MacGowan, Jem Finer, Andrew Ranken, Spider Stacy, James Fearnley, Terry Woods, and Darryl Hunt.

West Cork Distillers, an independently owned and operated Irish distillery, produced The Pogues Irish Whiskey in 2015. While West Cork Distillers will continue to hold global distribution rights, it has awarded Halewood distribution rights for Halewood core markets, including UK, RSA, Romania, China and Global Travel Retail.

Halewood International Group chief executive officer Stewart Hainsworth said: "This acquisition further strengthens our close partnership with West Cork Distillers.

"We already distribute the West Cork Irish Whiskey brand range in the UK and throughout our network and West Cork Distillers distribute Halewood brands in Eire. The Pogues Irish Whiskey is a premium whiskey that adds its own distinct, rebellious character to our spirits portfolio."

The Pogues Irish Whiskey is a blend of 50% 10-year single malt Irish whiskey aged in sherry oak casks and seven-year-old single malt Irish whiskey aged in bourbon oak casks and 50% four year Irish grain whiskey aged in bourbon oak casks.

The liquid has an aroma of malts and cracked nuts, with a sweet taste and a smooth, intense flavour.