Dublin Liberties Distillery

History of Dublin Liberties Distillery

The Dublin Liberties Distillery, situated in the historic Liberties area of Dublin, Ireland, was founded in 2016. The distillery is located in a 400-year-old building that once served as a mill and tannery. The transformation of this historic site into a modern distillery was spearheaded by Founder Darryl McNally, a renowned Master Distiller with extensive experience in the whiskey industry.

The Founder: Darryl McNally

Darryl McNally, who has over two decades of experience in whiskey production, played a crucial role in establishing the distillery. His vision was to create a distillery that not only produced high-quality whiskey but also paid homage to Dublin’s rich distilling heritage. McNally’s expertise and passion for whiskey have been instrumental in shaping the distillery’s offerings and reputation.

Whiskey Offerings

The Dublin Liberties Distillery offers a diverse range of premium Irish whiskeys. Their portfolio includes:

The Dublin Liberties Oak Devil: A blend of Irish malt and grain whiskeys, aged in bourbon casks, known for its smoothness and hints of caramel and oak.
Copper Alley: A 10-year-old single malt finished in sherry casks, offering rich, fruity flavors with a touch of spice.
Murder Lane: A 13-year-old single malt finished in Hungarian Tokaji wine casks, providing unique sweet and nutty notes.
Keeper’s Coin: A 16-year-old single malt aged in bourbon barrels and finished in Pedro Ximénez sherry casks, delivering a complex profile of dried fruits and chocolate.
King of Hell: A special release whiskey known for its intense and robust flavor, embodying the spirit of the Liberties area.

Distillery and Visitor Experience

The Dublin Liberties Distillery is not only a place of production but also a popular tourist destination. Visitors can take guided tours that offer insights into the whiskey-making process, from grain to glass. The distillery features state-of-the-art facilities while retaining elements of the original historic building, creating a unique blend of old and new.

The distillery prides itself on its commitment to quality and preserving Dublin’s distilling heritage. Each whiskey is crafted with meticulous attention to detail, using traditional methods combined with modern innovations.

The Dublin Liberties Distillery continues to build on its legacy, contributing to the resurgence of Irish whiskey on the global stage.

The Dublin Liberties Distillery stands as a testament to the rich history and vibrant future of Irish whiskey. Founded by Darryl McNally in 2016, the distillery has quickly established itself as a producer of premium whiskeys, celebrated for their unique flavors and high quality. Through its offerings and visitor experiences, the distillery continues to honor Dublin’s distilling heritage while pushing the boundaries of innovation in the whiskey industry.

Awards Won by Dublin Liberties Distillery

London Spirits Competition 2018:

The Dead Rabbit Irish Whiskey: Gold Medal with a score of 95 points.
The Dubliner 10 Year Old Irish Whiskey: Silver Medal.
The Dubliner Irish Whiskey & Honeycomb: Silver Medal.

Irish Tourism Industry Awards: The distillery was recognized as Ireland’s Best Cultural Experience, highlighting its contribution to the tourism sector and its engaging visitor experiences.

Dublin Liberties Distillery Tour Information and Experience

The Dublin Liberties Distillery offers an immersive and educational tour experience that delves into the rich history and intricate process of whiskey production. Situated in a historic 400-year-old building, the distillery combines modern technology with traditional methods to create premium Irish whiskey.

Tour Details

Guided Distillery Tour:
- Duration: Approximately 1 hour.
- Content: The tour begins with an introduction to the history of The Dublin Liberties Distillery and the surrounding area, known for its deep roots in the distilling tradition. Visitors are then guided through the various stages of whiskey production, from grain intake to mashing, fermentation, distillation, and maturation.
- Facilities: The tour includes visits to the mashing and fermentation rooms, the impressive copper stills used for distillation, and the aging barrels where the whiskey matures.
Whiskey Tasting:
- Experience: At the end of the tour, guests are invited to a tutored whiskey tasting session. This takes place in a beautifully restored bar area within the distillery. Visitors can sample a selection of the distillery’s award-winning whiskeys, including The Dead Rabbit Irish Whiskey, The Dubliner 10 Year Old Irish Whiskey, and other unique blends.
- Insights: The tasting is led by knowledgeable guides who provide detailed information about each whiskey’s unique flavor profile, production techniques, and the characteristics that distinguish them from other Irish whiskeys.
Visitor Center:
- Features: The distillery’s visitor center includes a café and a gift shop. The café offers a range of refreshments and light bites, making it a great place to relax before or after the tour. The gift shop sells a variety of branded merchandise, bottles of the distillery’s whiskeys, and other whiskey-related products.
- Ambiance: The visitor center retains much of the building’s original charm, with exposed brick walls and historic features blending seamlessly with modern amenities.

Additional Activities

Special Events: The distillery occasionally hosts special events, such as whiskey masterclasses, where visitors can learn more about the art of whiskey blending and distillation from experts in the field.
Private Tours: For a more personalized experience, private tours can be arranged. These tours offer a more in-depth look at the distillery’s operations and include additional tasting options.

Booking and Accessibility

How to Book: Tours can be booked online through the distillery’s official website. Advance booking is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Accessibility: The distillery is committed to providing an inclusive experience for all visitors. Facilities are wheelchair accessible, and the staff is trained to assist guests with special needs.

Flask & Barrel Review of Dublin Liberties Distillery

I recently had the pleasure of visiting the Dublin Liberties Distillery, and let me tell you, it was an amazing experience! As a whiskey collector who’s toured quite a few distilleries, this one definitely stood out. Here’s why I’m giving it a solid 4.7 out of 5.

First off, the location is just fantastic. Nestled in a 400-year-old building in the heart of Dublin’s historic Liberties area, the distillery has an incredible mix of old-world charm and modern flair. Walking into the place, you can really feel the history and passion that goes into making their whiskey.

The tour itself was top-notch. Our guide was super knowledgeable and friendly, taking us through every step of the whiskey-making process. We got to see everything up close—from the grain intake and fermentation to the copper stills and aging barrels. It was fascinating to see how they blend traditional methods with cutting-edge techniques.

And then there was the tasting session. This was the highlight for me. We got to sample a range of their award-winning whiskeys, including The Dead Rabbit and The Dubliner 10 Year Old. Each one had a unique flavor profile, and it was great to hear the stories behind them. The tasting room, with its cozy ambiance and historical decor, was the perfect setting for it.

I also loved the visitor center, which has a cool café and a gift shop stocked with all sorts of whiskey-related goodies. I picked up a couple of bottles to add to my collection and some neat souvenirs.

The only reason I’m not giving a perfect score is that I wished the tour was a bit longer. I was so engrossed in the experience that I didn’t want it to end. But honestly, that’s a minor thing in the grand scheme of things.

Overall, the Dublin Liberties Distillery offers a fantastic blend of history, craftsmanship, and top-quality whiskey. It’s a must-visit for any whiskey enthusiast. I can’t wait to come back and see what new creations they come up with next!

What To Do Nearby Dublin Liberties Distillery

St. Patrick’s Cathedral (0.5 miles): This iconic Gothic cathedral is a must-visit. Dating back to 1220, it offers stunning architecture and a peaceful garden. It’s the tallest church in Ireland and has a rich history linked to St. Patrick himself.

Teeling Whiskey Distillery (0.3 miles)

Just a short walk from the Dublin Liberties Distillery, Teeling offers another fantastic whiskey experience. It’s one of the first new distilleries to open in Dublin in over 125 years, with engaging tours and tastings.

Guinness Storehouse (0.6 miles): Explore the world-famous Guinness Storehouse, where you can learn about the brewing process, enjoy interactive exhibits, and savor a pint of Guinness in the Gravity Bar with panoramic views of Dublin.

Marsh’s Library (0.4 miles): Step back in time at this historic library, which has remained unchanged for over 300 years. It houses a collection of ancient books and manuscripts, and the quaint reading cages add a unique charm.

Dublinia (0.5 miles): Discover Dublin’s Viking and medieval history at this interactive museum. Located right in the heart of the old city, it offers a fascinating journey through Dublin’s past with engaging exhibits and a medieval tower.

Francis Street (0.3 miles): Known as Dublin’s antique quarter, Francis Street is lined with antique shops offering a variety of treasures from Georgian furniture to vintage books. It’s a great spot for a leisurely stroll and some unique finds.

Pearse Lyons Distillery (0.7 miles): Located in a beautifully restored church, this boutique distillery offers intimate tours that dive into the local history and whiskey-making process. The glass steeple and unique setting make it a standout experience.

Variety Jones (0.2 miles): Treat yourself to a meal at this Michelin-starred restaurant known for its innovative and down-to-earth cuisine. It’s a cozy spot where you can enjoy a chef’s choice menu of flavorful dishes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What restaurants are near Dublin Liberties Distillery?

The Fumbally: It has a rating of 4.6 stars on Google Maps. Their address is Fumbally Lane, Dublin 8, Ireland. For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +353 1 529 8732. This café offers a variety of healthy, European dishes and is well-loved for its vibrant atmosphere and delicious food.

Two Pups Coffee: It has a rating of 4.5 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 74 Francis Street, Dublin 8, Ireland. For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +353 87 744 7384. Known for its cozy setting and dog-friendly environment, this café serves great coffee and brunch options, making it a perfect spot to relax and enjoy a meal.

Liberties Gate Bar & Restaurant: It has a rating of 4.5 stars on Google Maps. Their address is Dean St, The Liberties, Dublin 8, D08 W3X7, Ireland. For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +35317081999. This restaurant offers a mix of Irish and European cuisine in a charming pub setting, providing both comfort food and a friendly atmosphere.

What hotels are near Dublin Liberties Distillery?

Aloft Dublin City: It has a rating of 4.4 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 1 Mill Street, The Liberties, Dublin, D08 XK58, Ireland. For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +353 1 963 1800. This modern hotel offers stylish accommodations and is ideally located near many top Dublin destinations.

Hyatt Centric The Liberties Dublin: It has a rating of 4.6 stars on Google Maps. Their address is Dean Street, The Liberties, Dublin, D08 W3X7, Ireland. For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +353 1 531 3100. This hotel provides luxurious rooms and excellent amenities in the heart of Dublin.

Maldron Hotel Kevin Street: It has a rating of 4.3 stars on Google Maps. Their address is Kevin Street Upper, Dublin 8, Ireland. For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +353 1 906 8900. The hotel offers modern facilities and is within walking distance of St. Patrick’s Cathedral and other attractions.