The island of Ireland has a long history of whiskey distilling and a reputation for excellence, innovation and passion for the golden spirit.
The name whiskey comes from the Irish uisce beatha meaning water of life and the spirit has been distilled for centuries on the island.
Having enjoyed a renaissance in recent years, Irish whiskey now comes in many flavour profiles and new arrivals from distilleries like Slane, Dingle, Sliabh Liag and Hinch now stand beside centuries-old favourites like Bushmills, Jameson, Teeling and Tullamore D.E.W.
If you’re new to Irish whiskey or just want to expand your experience of it, a whiskey tour is ideal.
Dublin is home to five whiskey distilleries that you can visit to discover what is unique about each blend. A guided tour of the Jameson Distillery, original home of the world's best-selling Irish whiskey, is a must, but Teeling, Pearse Lyons, Roe & Co and Dublin Liberties distilleries all offer engaging tours and tasting opportunities.
For serious whiskey buffs, Whiskey Island offers seven different guided whiskey trails spanning two or three days that will take you behind the scenes at distilleries old and new and introduce you to the depth and diversity of Irish whiskey. Three of the trails are centred on Dublin while others cover Northern Ireland, the Boyne Valley, Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands and Ireland’s Ancient East and combine whiskey tastings with sightseeing.