Shane Lowry capped off an incredible week by sinking a 30-foot birdie putt on the 18th hole at Doonbeg, securing victory at the Amgen Irish Open by a record margin of 11 shots. The American president, Donald Trump, who owns the golf resort, was in attendance and presented the trophy to Lowry. However, the ceremony took an unexpected turn when Trump shifted the conversation from golfing achievements to tariffs on Irish whiskey.

He remarked that many had been inquiring about the 10 percent duty on Irish whiskey, which had also been addressed by Ireland’s Taoiseach, Micheál Martin. In a surprising announcement, Trump declared he would eliminate the tariff on behalf of the U.S., prompting cheers from the audience. The Irish Whiskey Association valued the annual U.S. export at approximately €450 million ($519 million). While Trump did not specify when the change would take effect—circumstances echoing a similarly delayed tariff decrease on Scotch whiskey—it raised hopes for an imminent positive shift for the Irish whiskey industry.

Interestingly, Trump maintains that he does not drink alcohol, having absorbed warnings about the dangers of alcoholism from his late brother. Yet, alcohol has frequently surfaced in his trade policies, often utilized to negotiate or exert pressure in trade disputes. Earlier this year, in a similar situation, Trump lifted tariffs on British whiskey as a favor during King Charles III’s state visit.

Whiskey has transitioned into a nuanced tool for trade diplomacy under Trump’s administration. Notably, both the U.S. and U.K. governments credit successful tariff exemptions to concerted efforts and ongoing engagement, hinting at a strategic move rather than mere coincidence. The Irish Whiskey Association had lobbied for similar treatment since the Scotch exemption was announced, highlighting the discrepancies in tariff applications based on geographic distinctions within Ireland.

While the announcement at Doonbeg was welcomed, it reflects a broader trend in Trump’s dealings, where alcohol serves as a vehicle for personalized political maneuvering without the need to reignite wider tariff wars. This trend has implications that extend beyond Irish whiskey, as seen when Trump previously responded to potential tariffs on American whiskey with threats against European spirits.

As discussions continue about the actual implementation of these tariff exemptions, questions linger regarding reciprocal arrangements and the potential influence of public appeals. At present, with whiskey as a focal point, Trump’s stated commitment remains just a promise. For now, he may choose to sip on a Diet Coke while negotiations remain in flux.