Wilde Irish Gin Co-founders Stuart Hall & Conor Quinn
How did you meet and what sparked the idea for you to create a gin brand together? Was there a specific moment or experience that inspired you?
Conor Quinn: We met over a decade ago, investing and partnering in numerous projects in different industries and our friendship grew from there. One of our ventures brought us to Ireland for an extended stint and we found ourselves enjoying gin cocktails. Having recently worked on a spirits project together, we started to throw ideas around for a new gin brand.
Stuart Hall: We started discussing and dissecting the botanicals and nuances of the different gins we tried. We dove deep into the world of gins – especially Irish gins – and were inspired by Ireland’s rich heritage and iconic historical figures.
What inspired you to connect your gin brand with the legacy of Oscar Wilde? Was there something about his life, personality, or work that resonated with you both as founders?
Hall: Oscar Wilde was a true revolutionary of his time. His sharp wit and exceptional individualism cemented his legacy as one of the most notable figures in history. He pushed boundaries and was always unapologetically himself, no matter the consequences. His daring spirit is something we felt compelled to infuse into our gin. We wanted to push boundaries and create something that would challenge the norms of gin and gin cocktails.
Quinn: Oscar Wilde is considered the most quotable figure in the English language. We like to think that he has something new to say and through Wilde Irish Gin, we’ve created a gin that captures the bold spirit that defined him.
What sets Wilde Irish Gin apart from other premium gins on the market today?
Quinn: We set out to create a gin that would make the classic cocktails better. Have a martini, but “make it Wilde.” Our two signature ingredients—wild mountain purple heather and bitter orange peel—are both locally sourced from West Cork, Ireland and bring forward vibrant citrus and floral notes.
Hall: Wilde Irish Gin is meticulously distilled in Ireland using carefully selected ingredients. We are “Pure Irish spirit,” additive free and without compounds or colorants of any kind. Our commitment to quality makes our liquid stand out in the crowded craft gin market. We hand-distill in small batches using two copper pot stills, and our gin is non-chill filtered to preserve its natural botanical essence.
Oscar Wilde is celebrated for his wit and individuality. How do you see Wilde Irish Gin embodying those same qualities?
Hall: Our gin pushes boundaries, much like Oscar Wilde himself–opening with citrus and floral notes instead of the traditional juniper punch of a London Dry. It’s a paradox, with a long, complex finish that remains refined and subtle, elevating gin to something extraordinary.
Quinn: The process of non-chill filtering Wilde Irish Gin enhances the taste and complexity. It retains the natural botanical essence and enhances the depth of our gin. The result brings enhanced flavor and aroma with balanced botanical flavors.
What has been the most rewarding part of your journey in creating WILDE Irish Gin?
Quinn: Building Wilde from an idea to a Brand that continues to expand throughout the United States has been incredibly fulfilling. To have our creative vision evolve into an impactful brand that resonates with such a diverse group of people is something I am genuinely proud of.
If you could serve Oscar Wilde one drink made with WILDE Irish Gin, which would it be and why?
Hall: My pick would be the paradoxical “Wilde Irish Coffee” made with Wilde Irish Gin, coffee and demerara syrup, topped with a float of heavy whipping cream and dusted with a mixture of sugar, salt and coffee grounds. An Irish coffee, of course, is typically made with Irish Whiskey, so this cocktail is an unexpected take on a classic. It perfectly channels Wilde’s spirit – both avant-garde and elegantly refined. Tasting is believing...