Located on the banks of the River Moy, the Ballina Whiskey (formerly Connacht Distillery) story starts on the Northwest coast of Ireland, in the wild, rugged, Atlantic landscape of Co. Mayo in the proud province of Connacht.
Founded by Master Distiller Robert Cassell and a transatlantic team that saw the potential in Irish whiskey. The derelict old Duffy’s Bakery site in Ballina was painstakingly renovated. Whiskey production commenced in this totally self-contained facility in 2016.
The distillery team shares a vision of bringing modern techniques to an old tradition of craft distilling and creating outstanding spirits for discerning drinkers. They are committed to using the greatness of the Irish pot still distilling method, in the three custom-built pot stills. Their aim is to create unique whiskeys, gin and poitín, more full of flavour and character. The stills are made to certain specifications in Victoria, British Columbia. Their dimensions, particularly their necks and heads, are different to others used in Ireland, ensuring the uniqueness of the whiskey.
The distillery is well known for its Spirit of the Atlantic whiskey. In its first year the Batch 1 spirit won a prestigious double-gold medal at the 2022 San Francisco World Spirits Competition.
The distillery also productes its own whiskey blends, gin, and poitin – spirits created for discerning drinkers who are looking for that little bit more from what they drink.
As part of our People and Places of North Mayo video series, we visited the Connacht Distillery, as it was known at the time, and met with members of the team to learn more about their work. The distillery has since changed name and ownership and is now known as Ballina Whiskey. While the name and ownership have changed, the commitment to quality products and service remains. A lovely look back at one of the stories behind North Mayo’s growing food and drink offering.
Ballina Whiskey Tours
The visitor experience will bring you on an intimate tour, discovering from grain to glass how their triple distilled craft pot still whiskey is so smooth and golden in colour.
Firstly, you will explore the rest of the family, including their gin, poitín and vodka, each with its own unique story. Secondly, quench your thirst and explore their portfolio with a guided personalised tasting session. Finally, discover the distillery shop where you can purchase Ballina Whiskey and local souvenirs.
For further details and to book a tour please visit their tour page HERE.
Contact
Web: www.ballinawhiskey.ie
Call: +353 (096) 74902