Walsh Whiskey is one of the leading independent distillers of branded, super-premium craft Irish whiskey. The brand, in its new home at Royal Oak, works with local farms and communities in order to create charismatic Irish whiskies of exceptional quality.
RichardsDee were appointed to evolve the existing identity for Walsh Whiskey to reflect the relocation of a new world-class distillery at Royal Oak. The new location is set on the grounds of Holloden House at Royal Oak, which is framed by two hundred-year-old oak trees. Our task was to create an authentic, premium visual identity with a personal and vibrant visitor experience.
Working with our brand experience partners, studiodesignsquared, we engaged in a collaborative process with Walsh Whiskey and Bord Bia. Workshops enabled us to gain a thorough understanding of the estate’s history and we set about mapping the customer journey to ensure all touchpoints were considered and evaluated from the outset.
Once this stage had been completed, we quickly began developing creative territories that were authentic to the region and true to the values and culture of the brand and family. These creative territories examined themes around place, people, product and process and were streamlined with the client to deliver a solution that is evocative of the future experience.
It was essential that the visual identity celebrated the beauty of Royal Oak and the history of Irish whiskey production. The mark is rooted in the estate, focusing on the oak tree, evoking a sense of place. The symbol features an Irish Crown, reinforcing the heritage associated with Royal Oak and the logotype is a bespoke hand lettered font, with a Celtic ‘A’. The royal blue and copper colour palette and bold, confident use of typography results in a rich and vibrant system. This new identity is now being implemented throughout the visitor centre, communications and location signage.