After over 100 years pure pot still Irish Whiskey is now back in the West of Ireland. On Friday 9th October the Connacht Whiskey Distillery in Ballina has been opened by An Taoiseach, Enda Kenny, T.D. and a dream of two cousins comes true. The 27,000 square feet distillery goes into production later this month and expects to produce up to 70,000 cases per year. It is only the second Connacht-based craft whiskey distillery, and one of a handful of developed craft distilleries across the country. The Distillery also features an interesting visitor centre.

Speaking at the opening, the Taoiseach said, “I am delighted that the craft of whiskey-making is returning to the West of Ireland. It is especially pleasing to see the renewal of what was Duffys’ Bakery bringing new life to this scenic location on the banks of the River Moy. This exciting venture brings to fruition the vision of David Stapleton and his US-Irish team and marks a positive development for the agri-food and drinks sector.”

Connacht Whiskey is a unique spirit that can only be produced in the West of Ireland on the banks of the river Moy.

Photo (left to right): Taoiseach Enda Kenny and directors of Connacht Whiskey – Tom Jensen, PJ Stapleton, Rob Cassell and David Stapleton.