If there is one drink people associate with the island of Ireland it’s probably whiskey, or as we call it in Irish uisce beatha which literally translates as “water of life”. Ireland has a very long history of whiskey distilling which originated in the 12th century. The path of the Irish whiskey industry hasn’t always be smooth but it is now experiencing an exciting revival. In fact, Irish whiskey is now the fastest growing spirit in the world, how great is that? When in Ireland we believe that everyone should visit at least one whiskey distillery to learn a little bit about this fascinating spirit. Here are the five best Irish whiskey distilleries to visit:
Teeling, Whiskey Distillery (Dublin)
Teeling Whiskey Distillery opened in the heart of the Liberties in Dublin in 2015. It was the first whiskey distillery to open in the Irish capital for over 125 years. This ultra modern distillery is open every day from 10am to 5.40pm and runs guided tours in English which end with a whiskey tasting. Different tour options are available ranging from €15 for the basic ‘Teeling Tasting’ to €30 for the ‘Distillery Select Tasting’.
For more information, visit Teeling’s website > https://teelingdistillery.com/
Jameson Experience (Midleton, Co. Cork)
Jameson whiskey is without a doubt the most famous Irish whiskey brand, being exported all over the world. While the original home of Jameson was Dublin, where they operated for over 200 years, Jameson moved to Midleton Co. Cork in 1975. The Jameson Experience is a fantastic thing to do for whiskey lovers or people who want to learn a little bit about the most successful of Irish whiskeys. There is a range of guided tours available starting at €22 for the ‘Jameson Experience Tour’ to more specialised tours like the’ Behind the Scenes Tour’ (€60) or the ‘Distiller’s Apprentice Tour’ (€95).
For more information, visit Jameson Experience’s website > https://www.jamesonwhiskey.com/en-US/visit-us/jameson-distillery-midleton
Slane Distillery (Co. Meath)
For something a little different why not head over over to Slane Castle in Co. Meath where you’ll find Slane Distillery in its old stables. This is a relatively new distillery with sleek premises and a beautiful bar. The 1 hour tour will take you around the working distillery and end with their signature triple casked blend. Slane Distillery operates guided tours every day for €18 per adult.
For more information, visit Slane Distillery’s website > http://www.slaneirishwhiskey.com/tours/distillery-tour/
Kilbeggan Distillery Experience (Co. Westmeath)
The Kilbeggan Distillery, established in 1757, is the oldest licensed distillery in Ireland. During their tours, learn how whiskey was made in the 18th century as well the current methods of production. There are 3 types of tours available depending on the level of interest: ‘The Apprentice Tour’ (€14), ‘The Distillers Tour’ (€26) and ‘The Connoisseur Tour’ (€85).
For more information, visit Kilbeggan Distillery Experience’s website > http://www.kilbeggandistillery.com/
Old Bushmills Distillery (Co. Antrim)
Bushmills established their distillery in 1784 and claim the title of ‘oldest whiskey distillery in the world’ due to a licence from 1608. Located in the small village of Bushmills in Co. Antrim in Northern Ireland, the distillery is worth a visit. The public tour costs £9 per adult, opening hours vary according the winter/summer seasons.
For more information, visit the Old Bushmills Distillery’s website > https://www.bushmills.com/distillery/
Finally, if you don’t want to commit to a full whiskey distillery tour you can join one of our Delicious Dublin Tours during which you’ll get a small introduction to Irish whiskey.
