Irish Distillers, part of Pernod Ricard and maker of Jameson whiskey, is set to sue rival distiller Cooley.

The dispute relates to a new Cooley whiskey produced for the Russian market.

Irish Distillers is understood to be concerned about the whiskey's similarity to the Jameson brand.

A spokesperson for Irish Distillers declined to comment on the case, but said that proceedings were at a "preliminary stage".

Cooley, which claims to be the only independent, Irish-owned distillery, produces and bottles whiskey for several international companies.