Crolly Distillery is a whiskey distillery based in County Donegal, Ireland. Its origins date back to 1840, but the establishment was forced to close… only to reopen in 2020. Forget the big plants and industrial production rates: here, production is on a human scale and artisanal. Their ambition: to produce an excellent whiskey, faithful to centuries of tradition and know-how. And the icing on the cake: the distillery is open to the public. Perfect for learning the secret of distillation!
Crolly Distillery – © Fáilte Ireland
Forget the behemoths that produce Irish whiskey for export around the world. The small local distilleries are also well worth a visit! The proof is in the Crolly Distillery, which has taken up the challenge of producing whiskey using “old-fashioned” distillation methods.
There’s no ultra-sophisticated modern equipment here: the whiskey produced is distilled using authentic copper pot stills, with gas and direct fire, and a traditional worm screw condenser.
This method of intense contact with copper creates the “billionaire effect”, producing a liquid with greater complexity and a richer profile. The whiskey is then stored in bourbon casks and left to rest for a minimum of three years on site.
The managers of the establishment like to say that their beverage is a concentrate of Irish tradition, and a tribute to their land of Donegal. The whiskey has a beautiful amber color, tending towards gold. Its complex fragrances offer a powerful fruity blend. Enough to delight the nose and palate of whiskey lovers!
If you’d like to discover the secrets of Irish artisanal distillation, the distillery is open to the public. The fascinating tour will tell you all about the ancestral methods used, and ends with a small tasting session. You’ll have the opportunity to learn more about Crolly whiskey and discover all that makes up its soul and character. It’s a lovely moment, which will show you just how strong the connection is between Irish distillers and their land!
Want to extend your visit without having to rush around? Here are a few well-located places to stay near the must-see attractions.
Essential information to help you plan your visit, including key landmarks, access information, and booking options.
Killindarragh, Co. Donegal, Ireland, Crolly (County Donegal) - Republic of Ireland
55.02303745855426, -8.264827993401966
1h30
