Located on the grounds of the magnificent Powerscourt Estate near Enniskerry, Co Wicklow, Powerscourt Distillery is an ideal alternative whiskey destination for those on the east coast.

Designed and commissioned by the Forsyths, a fifth-generation Scottish family business, who have been manufacturing distillery equipment since the 1890s, the distillery is set in the old mill house on the estate. These buildings have been restored and extended to create a visitor centre, gift shop, café and six individual tasting rooms.

Under the watchful eye of master brewer Noel Sweeney, a new brand was launched by the distillery; Fercullen. Available now is a 14-year-old single-malt whiskey, a 10-year-old single-grain Irish whiskey and a premium blend Irish whiskey.

Although the café is open for take away, in line with Government guidelines, you will have to wait until 8 July for tours to recommence. The tour of the distillery and warehouse brings you through the fully operational whiskey distillery and on-site maturation warehouse concluding, as would be expected, with a sampling of four of the award-winning Fercullen Irish Whiskeys. This option is €25pp.

If whiskey is a “take it or leave it”, then don’t turn away just yet, there is also a food option. Also available is a food pairing tour for €35pp. This includes the full tour and tasting with the addition of local artisan foods specifically chosen to pair with each of the whiskeys. Think meats from the Wooded Pig, local honey from the estate, Wicklow Bán cheese and their own Fercullen chocolates.

Can’t wait till July? Fear not, you can order a hamper of all this deliciousness on their website.

Keep an eye on the website in the coming weeks for the online booking system to reopen.

powerscourtdistillery.com