IT’S WORLD WHISKEY day. It would be downright wrong not to have a sip.
If you fancy going a bit further afar, here are some spots in Ireland to bring joy to your inner whiskey lover.
1. The Dingle Distillery, Dingle, Co. Kerry
This is one of Ireland’s newest distilleries, producing vodka, gin, and whiskey. They only have an output of two casks of whiskey a day, so you can be assured that it’s made with loving care. Get yourself up for a two day masterclass or simply head along for a tasting in the distillery’s surrounds.
2. The Jameson Experience, Co. Cork
Situated in Midleton, the Jameson Experience is one of the top rated attractions in Cork on TripAdvisor, and a haven for whiskey lovers. Knowledgeable guides will show you around the old brewing grounds, with some of the buildings dating back as far as 1795. There are plenty of specialist bars to get stuck into the actual stuff itself, including a tasting that will earn you the title of certified Whiskey Taster.
3. Garavans Bar, Co Galway
Sample the whiskey platter in Galway’s finest. Garavansis family run since 1937, and you won’t find a better selection of whiskey in the west. Try their extremely potent Irish coffee if you’re feeling daring.
4. Locke’s Old Kilbeggan Distillery Museum, Co. Westmeath
There’s no visitorscentre here, you’re dumped straight into the 1757 distillery to get right to the heart of the action. There’s so much character and back story to this whiskey institution, Mumford and Sons even paid a visit.
5. Tullamore Dew Heritage Centre, Co. Offaly
Tullamore possibly has the best whiskey experience in terms of actually learning about how to taste it. You’ll be surprised at the end of the tour when you pick up things you previously wrote off as just… whiskey. Chill out on their whiskey barrel bar stools when it’s all over.
6. Cooley Whiskey Visitor Centre, Co. Louth
Not the most glam of distilleries, but one of the most hands-on. You can even fill your own souvenir bottle from a cask. Get in. Taste whiskeys from Greenore, Tyrconnell, Connemara and Kilbeggan when you’re done.
7. Celtic Whiskey Shop, Co Dublin
A finer selection of whiskey in the city just can’t be found. This shop on Dawson Street has the most helpful staff you could hope for, and they’re open to letting you sample the goods before you buy. Pick up some limited edition Irish whiskeys or take your pick from the wall of mini bottles.
8. The Palace, Co. Dublin
Tip in to the Palace’s comprehensive Whiskey Bar and let their staff pour you something delicious. You’ll have to head upstairs in the Fleet Street pub, but it’ll be worth it to sample their very own branded grain.
9. Dick Macks, Dingle
This whiskey bar is an experience. Officially the best in Munster, you don’t get a much more authentic Irish pub. The broad choice of whiskey and the cosyaul lad surroundings make it the perfect place to sit back and take a sup.
10. The Irish Whiskey Museum, Co. Dublin
Situated right opposite Trinity College, this museum was set up to take you through the story of whiskey in Ireland. Headed up by connoissuer Keith McDonnell, the museum is independent of any brand so you’ll get the full tasting experience with none of the bias.
ht to Publin.ie for reminding us of this wonderful day
