Your Ultimate Guide to Irish Whiskey Tours

Ireland’s whiskey heritage is steeped in tradition and culture, with a rich history of craftsmanship that has been passed down through generations. While the true birthplace of whiskey remains a friendly point of contention between Ireland and Scotland, both nations lay claim to the invention of this golden spirit.

If you’re looking to delve into the world of Irish whiskey, the “Hidden Casks of Ireland” tour by Dunes & Drams provides a curated experience that showcases the finest distilleries and whiskey makers across the island of Ireland. Here’s an overview of the top destinations featured on our exclusive multi-day whiskey tour, along with some additional must-visit sites to discover some of Ireland’s hidden casks.

Explore the Essence of Irish Whiskey

Irish whiskey is renowned for its smoothness and complexity, a result of traditional distillation methods supported by modern innovative approaches as well as high-quality ingredients. The following distilleries and whiskey businesses not only produce some of the finest whiskeys but also offer immersive tours and experiences that provide a deeper understanding of this cherished spirit. While visiting each of these locations you will get to meet the founders and craftspeople behind these brands, who will tell their stories highlighting the drive and ambition each of them have to grow their business, Irish whiskey and Irish whiskey tourism, to be the best in the world.

1. Midleton Distillery Experience, Midleton, Co. Cork

No visit to Ireland is complete without exploring the Midleton Distillery, Co. Cork. As one of the most iconic names in Irish whiskey, the Midleton Distillery offers visitors a comprehensive tour of its state-of-the-art facility which is home to a vast range of whiskeys, namely, Jameson, Redbreast, Powers, Midleton Very Rare, The Spot Whiskeys, Method and Madness and Knappogue Castle. The experience includes a guided tour of the distillation process, tastings of various brand expressions, and a chance to blend your own whiskey.

There are several whiskey tour options at Midleton, however your Dunes & Drams experience will get you behind the scenes and provide you with the opportunity to taste some of the oldest and rarest whiskies on the island of Ireland. A visit to Midleton is perfect for both novices and seasoned whiskey lovers, and is a great location to set the scene of Irish whiskey, from its storied past to its current landscape and exciting future.

2. West Cork Distillers, Skibbereen, Co. Cork

West Cork Distillers, situated in the heart of West Cork, is one of Ireland’s largest independent distilleries. Known for its commitment to innovation and quality, the distillery is a huge success story and a massive employer in the town of Skibbereen. The distillery was established in 2003 by three childhood friends, John O’Connell, Ger McCarthy and Denis McCarthy and is the embodiment of hard work, grit and determination, all of which are characteristics of the West Cork way of life.

Visitors to the Skibbereen distillery can learn about the fascinating story of West Cork Whiskey, its innovative distillation processes, enjoy exclusive tastings, and discover the unique characteristics that make West Cork’s offerings stand out. The distillery’s dedication to using local ingredients and traditional methods, aided by pioneering modern approaches, is evident in every bottle.

3. Bushmills Distillery, Bushmills, Co. Antrim

Located in County Antrim, Northern Ireland, Bushmills Distillery is the oldest licensed distillery in the world, with a history dating back to 1608. It’s owner, Proximo Spirits, has invested heavily in the distillery in recent years highlighting their confidence in Irish whiskey and in the ambitious expansion plans of Bushmills on a worldwide scale.

A tour of Bushmills Distillery offers a journey through centuries of whiskey-making tradition, showcasing the unique processes that contribute to Bushmills’ distinctive flavour profile. Visitors can enjoy guided tastings of classic and rare expressions, along with exclusive insights into the distillery’s operations. The rich history of the distillery and the scenic surrounding of the Causeway Coast make Bushmills a must-visit for any whiskey enthusiast.

4. Teeling Distillery, Dublin City

Teeling Distillery, located in the heart of Dublin, is a modern distillery with a storied past. At the time of construction, it was the first distillery built in Dublin City in 125 years. The Teeling family name is synonymous with Irish whiskey and this business is spearheaded by brothers Stephen and Jack. Known for its innovative approaches to whiskey production, Teeling Distillery is a modern Irish whiskey business and is not afraid to experiment with various cask maturation techniques and unusual blends, resulting in a range of exceptional small batch whiskies.

The tours available provide a behind-the-scenes look at the distillery’s operations, including its unique small-batch production methods and cask maturation processes. Teeling is a perfect stop for those interested in contemporary twists on traditional Irish whiskey.

5. Killowen Distillery, Killowen, Co. Down

Nestled in the Mourne Mountains, Killowen Distillery is one of Ireland’s smallest yet most innovative distilleries. Killowen is known for its commitment to preserving old-world techniques while pushing the boundaries of flavour with unique cask finishes. You are sure to get a warm welcome from Brendan and his team on your off the beaten path visit to Killowen.

The exclusive tour of Killowen offers an intimate experience, allowing visitors to see traditional distillation methods in action, including the use of worm tub condensers and direct-fired stills. While here you will get a rare glimpse into the craft of artisanal whiskey production.

6. Clonakilty Distillery, Clonakilty, Co. Cork

Located in the coastal town of Clonakilty, this distillery offers a unique experience blending maritime influences with traditional whiskey-making techniques. Founded by the Scully family in 2016, Clonakilty Distillery is a true grain to glass operation. From growing barley at the fields by Galley Head, distilling spirit in their state-of-the-art distillery and maturing and bottling their whiskies at the Atlantic Coast Warehouse, the team at Clonakilty proudly do everything “in house” to ensure unparalleled quality.

The ultra-luxe tour at Clonakilty will include a guided exploration of the distillery, tastings of their award-winning spirits, insights into their sustainable practices and visits to their Atlantic Coast Warehouse and the barley fields at Galley Head.

7. The Ardara Distillery, Ardara, Co. Donegal

Located in County Donegal, Ardara Distillery is a new addition to Ireland’s whiskey scene, offering a modern take on traditional distilling practices. The distillery is part of the Sliabh Liag Distillers family and is dedicated to reviving the historic smoky style of Donegal whiskey. This whiskey business was founded by husband and wife team James and Moira Doherty who “returned to the Sliabh Liag peninsula to build a legacy”.

A tour of the Ardara Distillery includes tastings of the distillery’s unique expressions, as well as an exploration of its innovative production techniques and cask warehouse. Ardara Distillery is a must-visit for those interested in experiencing rugged Ireland and in the resurgence of traditional Irish whiskey styles associated with County Donegal.

8. Chapel Gate Irish Whiskey, Cooraclare, Co. Clare

Chapel Gate Irish Whiskey, located in County Clare, has revived the lost art of whiskey bonding — a traditional practice of aging and blending whiskeys sourced from different distilleries. The business was founded by Louise McGuane, who, after a career spent in the drinks industry abroad, returned home to Cooraclare to make her own footprint on the world of Irish whiskey.

The tour offers a unique perspective on the history and craft of whiskey bonding, with tastings of Chapel Gate’s JJ Corry brand. Visitors will explore the maturation rack house and learn about the selection and blending processes that create JJ Corry’s distinctive flavours and whiskies.

9. Lakeview Estate, Killarney, Co. Kerry

The Lakeview Estate, located on the shores of Lough Leane, just outside the vibrant town of Killarney, is home to Wayward Irish Spirits. Sir Maurice O’Connell, a descendent of the political leader Daniel O’Connell, founded this whiskey business which boasts The Liberator and Lakeview Single Estate whiskey ranges, with the latter being distilled from grain grown on fields within the estate.

The VIP tour at Lakeview Estate will include a walk through the majestic grounds, a visit to the “House of Contentment”, tasting of exclusive whiskies and a guided experience from Sir Maurice who will share tales of Irish revolutionary times and his journey in founding Wayward Irish Spirits.

10. Two Stacks Irish Whiskey, Newry. Co. Down

Two Stacks Irish Whiskey is a cool whiskey brand and focuses on the art of whiskey bonding. Simialr to West Cork Distillers, Two Stacks was founded by three friends, Shane McCarthy, Liam Brogan and Donal McLynn, all bringing their own unique backgrounds and experiences to the table. These guys really are innovative and groundbreaking in their approach – a prime example being their “Dram in a Can”, the world’s first Irish whiskey in a can.

On a Two Stacks whiskey tour you will discover the unique story behind the business as well as the broader history of bonding and blending in Ireland. You will get access to some exclusive casks on-site and have the opportunity to blend your very own whiskey to take home or enjoy in “The Loft Bar” at Two Stacks.

Experience the Best of Irish Whiskey with Dunes & Drams

The Dunes & Drams “Hidden Casks of Ireland” tour provides a curated journey through these and other notable distilleries and bonders, offering a unique opportunity to explore the depth and diversity of Irish whiskey. This tour is designed for those who want to delve into the heart of Ireland’s whiskey heritage, featuring exclusive VIP access to distilleries, expert-led tastings, all while staying at luxurious hand-picked accommodations.

Whether you’re a seasoned whiskey connoisseur or a curious novice, the “Hidden Casks of Ireland” tour offers an immersive experience that goes beyond the glass. Discover the stories behind Ireland’s most celebrated whiskeys, meet the craftsmen and women who create them, and savour the unique flavours that define Irish whiskey.

Embark on a journey through Ireland’s whiskey landscape and uncover the secrets of this iconic spirit. Get in touch with us today and let’s start the conversation about bringing your Irish whiskey adventure with Dunes & Drams to life!