America distillers protect the identity of their brands very strongly and legal action is taken against attempts to market whiskies with similar names. This is quite understandable since passing-off substitutes can have severe commercial effects. The attempt by the distillers of Jim Beamtm whiskey to prevent the marketing of the Irish Beamishtm stout does however, appear extreme, especially since the Beamish family have been plying the brewer's trade in Cork since the 17th century. is almost inconceivable that the products could be confused, although the lawyers will, no doubt, grow rich.