The founders of a family-run whiskey distilling company, based in Co Carlow, yesterday turned the sod on what will be the country’s largest independent whiskey distillery, once completed.

The husband and wife team behind the ‘Hot Irishman’ range of spirits and whiskeys have formed a €25m joint-venture with Italian drinks giant Illva Saronno.

Walsh Whiskey Distillery has unveiled a €25m investment at their Carlow plant which will create 40 temporary construction jobs and 55 permanent ones.