20 Best Whiskey Distilleries in Ireland 2023

Kilbeggan Distillery Visitor Centre

☝️ Our reasons for recommending:

• Oldest distillery in Ireland
• Price/quality of whiskeys is amazing
• Small tour- interesting info & nice staff

Kilbeggan Distillery Visitor Centre is a unique opportunity to experience the oldest distillery in Ireland. This remarkable attraction offers informative and educational tours that focus on its local history, production process, and tastings of fine whiskey. The staff were friendly and helpful while our tour guide Heather provided relevant information with enthusiasm. She also allowed us plenty of time for questions so we better understand every part of Kilbeggan’s story.

The tour concluded with a tasting session which showcased the lovely smoothness of their whiskey collection – my favorite was the 8-year-old single malt! Afterwards, patrons can visit the shop or have a drink at their cozy bar to enjoy some more conversation about this legendary place. Moreover, those who wish to take home some samples are permitted through ‘driver experience’ – an innovative feature not offered by many other providers.

In conclusion, Kilbeggan Distillery Visitor Centre should be an essential destination on any trip through central Ireland – 193+ reviews affirm its excellence as evidenced by the 4.7 stars it holds on Google Review Platform. Price/quality ratio for whiskeys is amazing and witnessing such rich history definitely makes up for undertaking this road journey!

Jameson Distillery Bow St.

☝️ Our reasons for recommending:

• Delicious 18yr cask whiskey
• Passionate & knowledgeable staff
• Cocktail making classes

The Jameson Distillery Bow St is a one of a kind experience worth visiting. From the cask draw to cocktail making classes, there’s something for everyone who loves whiskey.

For those looking to get an authentic taste directly from the source, they can take part in the cask draw experience, where they'll be guided by an experienced distiller and sip on delicious 18 year old cask strength whiskey in a delightful aromatic atmosphere. Plus it's only €10! And if you want more than just tasting straight from the barrel, then why not try your hand at creating some classic cocktails with their fun and informative masterclasses? Their knowledgeable instructors will teach you not just how make but also give out tips to ensure that guests leave having created some perfect drinks!

The final step would be stepping back into their bar area after class and sipping away on your creations among friendly faces while taking in all of what makes this place so unique – its rich history steeped in traditions passed down over generations and its charming employees full of contagious passion. All these factors create an overall unforgettable visit that won't soon leave anyone's memory!

Royal Oak Distillery

☝️ Our reasons for recommending:

• Small group size.
• Knowledgeable guide.
• Free tasting session.

The Royal Oak Distillery provides an amazing and informative tour, with three routes to choose from. The tours were well-run and engaging for all involved, as the guides went into great detail about the distilling process without boring us. Even if you don't particularly enjoy whiskey or alcohol, the interesting facts provided on their history makes this tour worth a visit!

The small group size ensures that you have plenty of time at each spot in order to learn more about whiskeys such as Writer's Tears and The Irishman due to the knowledgeable guide providing helpful information while they sample different varieties along the way. Plus, after all of your hard work, there is also a free tasting session at the end which is definitely enjoyable regardless of whether you like whiskey or not!

At Royal Oak, they are putting quality over quantity when producing their whishkeys; therefore, although it takes longer than other distilleries for them to fully mature before consumption – customers can take solace knowing that the quality that comes out will be beyond expectations. From start to finish – anyone who chooses this wonderful service will not be disappointed – so book today!

Slane Irish Whiskey Distillery

☝️ Our reasons for recommending:

• Successful distillery.
• Impressive setup and brand.
• Restoration of old buildings.

Overall, the Slane Irish Whiskey Distillery is a great place to visit for whiskey lovers, curiosity seekers and anyone who appreciates stunning historical buildings with a modern touch. The tour doesn't disappoint – original features left intact from its time as old stables are blended seamlessly with newly refurbished structures to create an experience that is truly magical. Alongside this, there's entertaining stories (such as details of why the clock over the distillery entrance no longer works), and your taste buds can enjoy delightful samples at the end of it!

The team also caters for larger groups too – private corporate events are welcome providing an ideal setting for storytelling and creating lasting memories. On top of all this you'll find some delicious food onsite in their courtyard where coffees, cakes and toasties are served up perfectly matched to any generous slurp or two of whisky! If they were ever put on entertainment such as live music or hot dog/jacket potato type food stands I'm sure customer visits would be even more enjoyable than they already are!

So if you're looking for something special to do during your travels in Ireland then take my recommendation and make sure you keenly drop into The Slane Irish Whiskey Distillery – you won't leave disappointed!!!

Pearse Lyons Whiskey Distillery

☝️ Our reasons for recommending:

• Great Whiskey & Gin selection
• Various Tasting Tours
• Interesting history on site

Pearse Lyons Whiskey Distillery is worth visiting for many reasons. Their knowledgeable and friendly staff provide helpful insight into a range of whiskey, gin and other beverages so that guests can find the perfect selection to suit their taste. Furthermore, they offer a variety of tasting tours which are great value; with even the most basic packages providing 3 or 4 tastings plus a starter pour while you learn more about the drinks. Moreover, visitors can explore different aspects of culture during their stay as well – discovering historical sites such as an old church updated with modern touches and an ancient cemetery where some stones still bear inscriptions from centuries ago.

The quality experiences offered by Pearse Lyons Whiskey Distillery call for repeat visits too. With over 870 reviews on Google giving them a rating of 4.7 stars out 5, it’s clear this service has left many customers feeling satisfied – especially those looking to buy bottles from the distillery itself; bottle prices here may be relatively expensive but are said to be well worth the cost due to craftmanship when compared to other products in Dublin aged just like pearcelyons does! Finally, customer comments have noted not only exceptional delicious beverages but also good times being had exploring tucked away places particularly related to Irish history making it easy for anyone who visits here unforgettable memories sure-fire recallable time and time again!

Jameson Distillery Midleton

☝️ Our reasons for recommending:

• Great tours & tastings
• Amazing working machinery
• Quality gift store

Visiting Jameson Distillery Midleton is a must-do activity for any whiskey enthusiast. The tour includes an enlightening look at the state-of-the-art distilling process, a tasting of multiple different whiskeys from distinctly flavored regions and a souvenir gift store with exclusive bottles you won't find in stores. Alongside this, every visitor also gets to duck into one of the nearby pubs; all being within walking distance – for some extra fun!

The two hour guided tour gives you access to historical parts of the former Maturing Warehouse and Maltings complex, as well as providing insight into many items such as equipment used up until the 1970s. And that’s not even mentioning their famous Copper Pot Stills which can still be visited today. There are several tasting experiences available including Hot Whiskey Making 101 plus their premium Tasting sessions which have been specially developed by experts.

Whether it's your first time visiting or returning back again time after time, there's always something new to explore and fun things to do when you get here! Countless people who have already taken part in Jameson Distillery Midleton reviews all give positive words about its friendly staff, great communication during sessions and informative history lessons – making it clear why so many come raving about the place afterwards.

Old Bushmills Distillery

☝️ Our reasons for recommending:

• Informative guided tour
• Tasting hall experience
• Unique gift shop items

Bushmills distillery is a must-visit service for anyone interested in classic Irish whiskey. The staff are incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about preserving the centuries old traditions of Bushmill's. Our tour guide was filled with humor and joy which made it that much more special. During the tour, we were able to see and understand how their products are crafted from the beginning process through to fine tuning to create the perfect taste desired. Afterward, those 21+ had an opportunity to sample some of their finest offerings with guidance from our guide and members of the distilling team on site.

The gift shop afterward was quite charming- stocked full of unique souvenirs for taking home as reminders of this outstanding experience! The taster glasses etched with “Old Bushmills” make excellent gifts or mementos for your own home bar cart too! My favorite moment here however goes back to when we entered into a room full barrels aging away, it felt like stepping into another world at times without all modernity found else wear they take you in time beyond anything imaginableto appreciate whiskey taken in such ways decades ago by predecessors down generations now long gone forgotten yet very much alive if one has just eyes open. Here resting I sipped small tastes slow taken maybe left footsteps upon rock face but truly cannot be sure as so many within this place laid before me days timeless yet ever fleeting & life faded somewhere away up midst rafters near ceiling passed me silently none seen but heard them all slightly murmuring melodies sweetly dancing rekindling my hope by glimpse past history unfold here bushmollejng gently I immersed myself completely expecting nothing less than perfection present thereafter leaving feeling happiest best moments memorable forever until next visit again .

Overall visiting Old Bushmills Distillery is an unforgettable experience that takes you deep into understanding true master craftsmanship and antiquity behind wonderful creations like traditional whiskeys produced there since way back 1608 which would not be possible today without astounding expertise contributed countless souls over years patience endured throughout ages still used same processes recipes derived handed down between family dynasties lasting throughout time immemorial.)). Definitely worth taking trip plan early book ahead organize hoped day have enriching culturally enlightening enjoyable thanks everyone

Teeling Whiskey Distillery

☝️ Our reasons for recommending:

• Fascinating tour & history
• Whiskey tasting included
• Unique bottles and labels

Teeling Whiskey Distillery is definitely worth visiting for anyone looking for an interesting tour and experience. The combination of having a knowledgeable guide to explain the whiskey production process, along with trying some exquisite whisky makes it a great choice.

First, Teeling offers such a fascinating tour that immerses you in the history and culture of Irish whiskey distilling. From learning about how each batch is made to seeing the stills at work, I can't think of anywhere better to learn more about this iconic product. Plus all guided tours come complete with a complimentary tasting which always adds extra value!

Finally, what really sets Teeling apart from other distilleries are their exclusive editions only available in-store. By personalizing labels with your own name or artwork it makes any bottle purchased truly unique and something special to remember your visit by. All together these factors make Teelling an exciting journey into Dublin's historic world of whiskey – one not soon forgotten after you leave!

The Dublin Liberties Distillery

☝️ Our reasons for recommending:

• Knowledgable and friendly guide
• Tasting and facts about whiskey
• Unique atmosphere & heritage

At the end of the visit we were treated to a whiskey tasting which was definitely appreciated. We had a great time, our tour guide Kelly was super knowledgeable and gave us lots of interesting facts that we hadn't heard before.

We left feeling like we had just experienced something special and would highly recommend the Dublin Liberties Distillery. It is worth visiting for its unique atmosphere, Irish culture & heritage backed up by helpful staff with an extensive knowledge about Whiskey production and history – plus it's always refreshingly informative!

Thanks to Kelly who made this tour memorable! The Dublin Liberties Distillery offers a unique and enjoyable experience- from learning about Uisce Beatha (water of life) to actually tasting some amazing whiskeys .It is truly worth experiencing if you are in Dublin city area looking for something different enhancing your educational journey. Highly recommended!!!

Powerscourt Distillery

☝️ Our reasons for recommending:

• Highly recommended tour
• Knowledgeable guide & lovely atmosphere
• Excellent whiskey & food tasting

The Powerscourt Distillery is a great place to visit, with so much to offer. The tour guide was knowledgeable and enthusiastic, which made the experience an absolute pleasure. Not only did we learn about the distillery’s techniques of making whisky, but also got to sample their award-winning Fercullen Whiskey. We were lucky enough to buy some from the shop too!

The atmosphere of the distillery was exceptional and created a wonderful sense of ambience for our afternoon escape. The staff at both the store and cafe were extremely friendly and professional, creating such a welcoming and hospitable environment for visitors like ourselves. From scones in the café after our walk with my baby daughter to drinks before we left – it all added up to be one unforgettable experience!

In conclusion, I would highly recommend visiting Powerscourt Distillery for an incredible day out spent learning about quality whiskeys as well as being surrounded by friendly people who make you feel right at home. For anyone looking for a way into Irish whiskey tasting or just wanting something special within Wicklow County; this should definitely be your destination!

Dingle Distillery

☝️ Our reasons for recommending:

• Awesome tour with samples.
• Lovely distillery process.
• Whisky warehouse tasting.

We had an absolutely fantastic experience during our visit to the Dingle Distillery. Our tour guide, David, was extremely knowledgeable and took the time to answer all of our questions about whiskey, gin and vodka production. It wasn't a large visitor's centre yet you still got some great behind-the-scenes insights which we thoroughly enjoyed!

During the tour we also stopped off at their tasting room where we sampled a selection of their whiskeys and gins – they were superb! I would certainly recommend people make the effort to go out there as it's not something everyone gets to experience in their lifetime. Plus if you're looking for quality gin and vodka this is definitely the place to go.

We finished up our visit with a whisky tasting session held right inside of the warehouse itself conducted by none other than the master distiller's wife! She was incredibly well informed on her products and happily taught us about how ageing affects different kinds of whiskies – plus she provided us with lots of sampling opportunities too. We left feeling very satisfied that day but no doubt we'll be returning soon enough!

Ballykeefe Distillery

☝️ Our reasons for recommending:

• Family-operated distillery
• Locally farmed barley
• Excellent hospitality

Ballykeefe Distillery is absolutely worth of visiting and deserves the attention it's getting. With locally farmed barley, their sustainable product and family operations make them a top-notch service. The immense knowledge Morgan and Sarah possess leave visitors wanting more as they share their expertise in distilling a variety of spirits like Sloe Gin, Spiced Poitin, Gin, Vodka and Whiskey.

The tour itself is incredibly informative with thorough detail to answer any questions you may have about production process or history. Even if it wasn't for the fantastic drinks this establishment has to offer, many come for the amazing hospitality that comes along with it. Visitors are made to feel at home which only adds to the wonderful experience experienced here.

Whether it's your first trip or your fortieth Ballykeefe Distillery won't disappoint! You'll leave full not just from sipping on some awesome liquors but also full from knowing what goes into creating such an exceptional service – Something that sets helping others enjoy drinks apart when up against its competitors

Roe & Co Distillery

☝️ Our reasons for recommending:

• Gorgeous facilities
• Excellent experience
• Unique cocktails.

Roe & Co Distillery is the perfect place to explore and experience Irish whiskey. Located in a historic 117-year-old whisky bond, Roe & Co offer not only tastings of their delicious whiskey but also tours and custom cocktail experiences. The knowledgeable staff will lead you through the history of Irish distillation and each step of creating your very own drinks from start to finish. With special discounts for first time visitors, there has never been a better time to visit Roe & Co Distillery!

Whats more, after taking part in one of the experiences at Roe & Co’s Powerhouse Bar you gain access to The Flavour Room – an intimate setting where tour goers are invited back and with unique cocktails tailored just for them made by high-end mixologists on hand. This level of luxury really makes every moment count – truly making it an enjoyable experience for any visitor.

To sum up, no visit to Dublin or Ireland is complete without visiting Roe & Co Distillery – adding that extra element on somebody's trip while they learn about Irish Whiskey within an unforgettable experience like no other!

The Connacht Distillery

☝️ Our reasons for recommending:

• Fantastic location & taste
• Knowledgeable staff
• Excellent value for money

Absolutely lovely. Highly recommended! At the Connacht Distillery, you will find a fabulous location in Belleek and an excellent selection of whiskey, gin and vodka products all locally produced. The tour itself was extremely informative with knowledgeable staff who made sure to correctly explain how each spirit is made whilst also giving interesting stories about the process that led to it final product. After completing the tour, there were numerous opportunities to taste the different spirits on offer at very reasonable prices.

The entire experience was coupled with great service from start to finish and I couldn't recommend this distillery more highly for its proximity as well as value for money – making it perfect for a quick weekend getaway or day out from nearby cities such Ballina or Galway. Overall we enjoyed every second of our visit here – one of many reasons why we felt compelled to rate this venue five stars out of five without hesitation!

Clonakilty Distillery, Visitor Experience & Gift Shop

☝️ Our reasons for recommending:

• Friendly knowledgeable staff.
• Variety of tasting options.
• Comprehensive distillery tour.

Clonakilty Distillery is worth visiting for any Gin, Vodka and Whiskey aficionado. From its wonderful waterfront views, to the comprehensive range of spirits they offer, this distillery has something to delight even the most discerning palates.

During our visit, we were delighted by how knowledgeable and friendly the staff were. With a free tasting on offer and an array of exclusive releases available for purchase in the Gift Shop it was hard not to be tempted! We opted for a full tour (for 70-90 minutes) which gave us great insight into how their quality products are made – with everything being done right there onsite it really adds a unique touch every time you see one of their bottles: ‘Crafted at Clonakilty'.

Last but not least let's talk about that funny parking sign – now that was definitely worth seeing! All in all Clonakilty Distillery offers visitors a comprehensive insight into distilling whilst giving them access to some amazing products which cannot be found anywhere else. Highly recommended!

The Echlinville Distillery

☝️ Our reasons for recommending:

• Knowledgible & friendly staff
• Distillery shop with local spirits
• Free refreshments & samples

The Echlinville Distillery offers an unforgettable experience that is well worth the visit. Upon arrival, guests are welcomed with tea and cake while they explore their beautiful distillery shop. Here you will find a wide selection of spirits crafted to reflect the unlimited potential of Irish whiskey. On the tour itself, there’s plenty to learn as all questions are answered thoroughly by passionate, knowledgeable staff members who guide visitors through all amenities such as a T-34 tank, historical exhibits, interactive activities and more! In addition to this educational journey into history and culture, after the tour guests can sample two whiskeys from selected barrels in their tasting room – a great way to end your visit on another unique note.

Aside from providing multiple experiences for the perfect day out for tourists and local alike; The Echlinville Distillery is also undergoing construction transforming it even further – making it significantly larger than what it used to be. All in hope that future visitors can continue building up its existing reputation even beyond 5 stars!

To summarise: The Echlinville Distillery has become an amazing independent Irish treasure thanks years of effort put in by its dedicated staff – offering education on both recreational levels together with great food and drinks along with tailor-made souvenirs.. If you’re looking for something special then look no further than this place which despite under constriction continues to impress everyone who enters because coming here only means one thing – pure satisfaction every single time.

Achill Island Distillery

☝️ Our reasons for recommending:

• Authenticity and humbling experience.
• Easy to follow tour structure.
• Great value for money.

Firstly, Achill Island Distillery is a great choice for anyone looking to learn more about the production of whiskey. With tours ran by one of the distillery brothers, their genuine interest in how their product is made ensures that visitors are welcomed into a humbling experience full of informative knowledge and insights. The easy-to-follow tour structure accommodates even those who may not have prior experience with whisky while including plenty of opportunities to ask questions throughout. As an added bonus, samples are provided at the end for guests to enjoy before they leave!

Secondly, Achill Island Distillery offers superb value for money. Having visited several other distilleries prior to arriving here we can highly recommend it based on its price point alone – plus also due to its customer service as we appreciated that despite arriving late, help was still offered from guiding us through the tour regardless if it didn’t benefit them monetarily or otherwise! Therefore this speaks volumes and shows that quality counts first and foremost when visiting this place over anything else.

Lastly there’s definitely something special about touring around Achills Irish American Whiskeys as again – although having travelled previously Scotland & Ireland as above mentioned – here you feel authenticity is key which stands out , giving visitors assurance of trustworthiness since you\re being guided by someone passionate and knowledgeable rather than simply learning facts straight off a poster board etc. All in all definitely worth your time visiting & finding out what makes these amazing products so distinctively unique against any common alternatives out there making it truly ‘one of kind’ !

Lough Ree Distillery

☝️ Our reasons for recommending:

• Great range of top-shelf whiskies
• Lovely tour and tasty spirits
• Helpful staff & warm atmosphere

I have visited the Lough Ree Distillery and was really impressed. The tour exceeded our expectations and we learned a lot about the process of making whiskey. We could not resist stocking up on some very tasty spirits that were being offered at very reasonable prices. The distillery is also producing unique gins, vodka and even liqueurs which my friends and I enjoyed during our visit.

The knowledgeable staff has been extremely helpful in helping us to choose and purchase different bottles for our special occasions as well as gifts for family or friends back home. Besides from providing top-notch service, they create an overall warm atmosphere that beautifully captures the traditional Irish spirit.

Overall, I found this experience quite enjoyable and would highly recommend it for anyone visiting Longford County or just passing by! From great product selection to friendly customer service – what more do you need? Those looking for something truly authentic should put Lough Ree Distillery at the top of their list!

Killowen Distillery Ltd

☝️ Our reasons for recommending:

• Unique Irish Whisky
• Informative Tour
• Delicious Tastings

Killowen Distillery is one of Ireland’s most interesting whiskey distilleries. From the moment we arrived, it was clear that the owners are dedicated to their craft and put a lot of effort into creating an incredible experience for visitors. The tour of the facility was thorough and fascinating, allowing us to get up close and personal with production methods used in Irish Whiskeys. We were able to learn about unique aspects of Irish whiskies such as direct-fired pot stills and peat smoked malts while getting tastings throughout the tour!

The tasting room is something out of a dream – where once you enter, you feel like you are completely immersed in this historical art form. Shenda offers great insights into each sample being tasted – discussing everything from aromas, taste notes as well as what type of whisky pairs best with food pairings or using them to create cocktails etc. The Belgrove Oat/Rye release I had during my visit was truly delicious!

After visiting Killowen Distillery its clear why they have such high ratings online – friendly customer service combined with incomparable knowledge creates an unforgettable experience worth revisiting soon!

Tullamore Distillery (Irish Manufacturing)

☝️ Our reasons for recommending:

• Unique experience
• Great tour, worth travelling one hour from Dublin
• Antoinette great guide, well informed and friendly

Tullamore Distillery is an experience worth travelling for. With its beautiful Irish countryside setting and production facility, along with knowledgeable staff leading you every step of the way, it's sure to be a tour full of wonder and education. The tour starts off with an Irish coffee made by Vivienne explaining the secrets behind Tullamore D.E.W.'s smooth whiskey taste! Then guided through the distillation process before visiting warehouses and finished off with a tasting – how can one resist such a unique opportunity!?

The experience doesn't end there; visitors get to take in all views away from modern day life while absorbing knowledge on different types of whiskeys produced here like malt blends, pot still spirits as well as fruit liqueurs. Visitors also discover how traditional methods are used till this day to create the exceptional brew that is available manufactured right here within their walls – which makes it even more special!

Finally, at then end of tour they provide complimentary gifts like whisky-glasses engraved with your initials perfect for taking home to remember your visit – so this overall package will leave you wanting more! While stimulating curiosity in what each part contributes towards creating such quality product we call Tullamore D.E.W Whiskey or simply Whiskey itself –which makes it truly worth experiencing once in lifetime!