Limerick Business Leader: Local pair on the peat with new red and white wines

Tell us a little about your company:

BT Wines is comprised of both myself and my business partner Trisha. We produce Irish peated wine which is a unique semi-indigenous Irish style wine which has been matured with peat.

We source our grapes from the Rheinhessen and Pfalz regions in Germany to ensure consistency and quality of grape and mature it with Irish peat which we source locally in West Limerick. Both Trisha and I are very proud to be from Limerick.

We both have a huge interest in food and wine and have visited numerous wine regions across Europe, Australia, New Zealand, the US and Canada. It is our passion for wine and our love of home that inspired us to create this unique wine. The company is based at the Hartnett Enterprise Acceleration Centre in the Limerick Institute of Technology.

What does your role entail?

Both of our roles are all encompassing, from concept and idea to process, production and ultimately developing the final product. We also carry out all marketing and sales, trade events and tastings.

Where were you born and raised?

We were both born in raised in West Limerick in Shanagolden and Foynes respectively. Trisha still currently lives in Foynes and I currently live in Cork.

What is your educational background?

I have an honours business degree and a professional diploma in financial advice. Trisha also holds an honours business degree and a higher certificate in culinary arts from the Limerick Institute of Technology.

How did you get to where you are today?

Through continuous learning, asking unending questions and with the help of excellent mentors who have taken great time and effort to work with us to help us develop our product and also to guide us on setting up a new business!

What are your goals for the next 12 months?

Our primary goal is to launch our white wine this month, Irish peated pinot blanc and we intend to partake in a number of food and trade fairs throughout the year to promote our wine and ensure everyone gets to taste both our pinot noir and pinot blanc.

Who do you admire in business?

I personally hugely admire JP McManus for what he has achieved throughout his life and career and also his unfailing support for Limerick and local communities.

In business and life, are you guided by any particular motto?

Anything easily achieved has little value placed upon it and always remember none of us get out of life alive so take risks and be grateful for the opportunities you have.

Away from work, what are your pastimes and hobbies?

Walking, running, trying new restaurants and getting away for weekends in Ireland and Europe if time allows!