Kilkenny is a red ale made in the town of the same name. Both sweet and bitter, Kilkenny is one of Ireland’s most popular local beers, alongside Guinness, Murphy and Beamish. But of course its reputation extends beyond Ireland’s borders, and it’s exported to pubs and supermarkets all over the world, to the great satisfaction of fans of sweet, fruity beer with typically Irish flavours!
The Kilkenny beer brewery was founded in 1710 by John Smithwick, on the ruins of a 13th-century abbey. As a reference, the brewery became known as “St Francis Abbey”, and soon began producing russet ales for draught pubs.
These red ales include Kilkenny and Smithwick’s, a popular red ale served in most Irish pubs.
These 2 beers quickly became the flagship products of La Brasserie St Francis Abbey, and were soon in demand in Irish pubs. We love their bitter, tangy taste, softened by a hint of caramel.
It was so successful that Kilkenny beer became one of the jewels in Kilkenny’s crown. All pubs ask for it, to offer an alternative to Irish people who have grown tired of stouts, which are sometimes considered too strong for the palate.
After a few years in production, Kilkenny eventually completely supplanted Smithwick’s. So much so, in fact, that the latter is currently losing ground, a victim of the success of the Kilkenny, which is exported much more successfully than its colleague!
Kilkenny is slightly more bitter than Smithwick’s and has a more pronounced aroma. There’s only a slight hint of caramelized barley, making this a rather strong beer on the palate, with very little sugar.
Kilkenny has a very deep red color, sometimes tending towards red. Its creamy texture is light and almost fruity, making it an ideal thirst-quencher.
Kilkenny is most often offered on draught, and is served just about everywhere in the world. You can be served a half pint or a full pint in most Irish pubs.
If you prefer bottles or cans, Kilkenny Brewery exports thousands of liters every day to Europe, the USA and Asia. You won’t enjoy the same flavors, however, as Kilkenny loses some of its aroma when not served on draught.
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