Connacht Whiskey

Connacht Distillery, in the scenic town of Ballina near Sligo, Ireland, is a key player in Irish whiskey. Opened in summer 2015, it's the first new distillery in County Mayo in 150 years. Founded by Irish and American entrepreneurs, it blends Irish and American distilling traditions.

The Distillery’s Beginning

The plan to create Connacht Distillery started in 2014. A year later, the distillery was ready. It shows the lasting tradition of Irish whiskey-making, with a bit of American creativity.

Master Distiller’s Role

Rob Cassell, the Master Distiller at Connacht, values small-batch whiskey making. His aim is to make complex, enjoyable spirits. His approach sets Connacht apart from bigger distilleries.

Making Whiskey

Connacht Distillery makes double and triple-distilled single malt whiskey. They age all barrels on-site. The distillery has three copper pot stills for making single malt whiskey.

The Distillery’s Location

The distillery is near the River Moy, which meets the Atlantic Ocean. The mix of river and sea water affects the ageing of the whiskey. The sea’s changing weather also impacts the whiskey in the warehouse.

Local Connection

Connacht Distillery's products reflect County Mayo. The ingredients and spirit of the area are in every bottle.

Connacht Single Malt Batch 1

Connacht Single Malt Batch 1 is the distillery’s first whiskey. It's the first from County Mayo in 150 years. They began making it in 2016 with local barley from County Wexford. This batch was double-distilled in copper pot stills. It aged for nearly four years in bourbon barrels, then in sherry casks. The best casks were chosen for the final blend. This includes whiskey aged four to five years.

Range of Spirits

Connacht Distillery makes more than whiskey. They produce gins like Kookie Irish Gin and Conncullin Irish Gin and a port cask-aged gin. They also make Straw Boys Irish Vodka and Straw Boys Poitin. This shows the distillery's range.

The distillery is a leader in Irish whiskey. It combines old whiskey-making methods with new techniques. Based in a unique location, it is committed to quality and local character. Connacht Distillery is set to make a lasting mark in Ireland and around the world.