Whiskey hamper fans appear to be enjoying the tipple, as annual sales of Jameson Irish whiskey have reached three million cases.

The beverage - produced by Pernod Ricard - is distilled in Midelton, County Cork and recent sales figures show the drink has a strong foothold on the global market.

During the year ending June 2010 sales volumes went up by nine per cent and value grew by 12 per cent, despite the current economic climate.

Thierry Billot, managing director of brands at Pernod Ricard, said the continuous growth of the whiskey - which can often be found in gift hampers - is an example of the company's ability to develop global premium brands,

"This success is the result of a long-term strategy applied to all our strategic brands, based on premiumisation and innovation," he added.

And this has been sustained by a strong marketing strategy delivered by the power of the firm's own commercial network, Mr Billot noted.

Pernod Ricard creates a number of other beverages, including Malibu, Jacob's Creek, Ballantine's and Beefeater.