The Dublin Liberties distillery, located in the heart of Dublin, is where the exquisite Dubliner Irish Whiskey is made. As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of visiting this distillery and witnessing firsthand the craftsmanship and dedication that goes into producing this exceptional whiskey.
The process begins with a six tonne mashing, where the finest grains are carefully selected and combined with pure Irish water. This crucial step sets the foundation for the rich and complex flavors that Dubliner Irish Whiskey is known for. The mashing process ensures that the enzymes in the grains break down the starches into fermentable sugars, which are essential for the subsequent stages of distillation.
Once the mashing is complete, the liquid is transferred to the fermentation vessels where yeast is added. This is where the magic happens as the yeast feasts on the sugars, converting them into alcohol. The fermentation process typically takes several days, allowing the flavors to develop and evolve.
After fermentation, the liquid is ready for distillation. The Dublin Liberties distillery employs a triple distillation method, which is a hallmark of Irish whiskey production. This means that the liquid goes through not one, but three separate distillations, resulting in a smoother and more refined spirit. The distillery has three stills, with the first still having a capacity for 10,000 liters, and the second and third stills having a capacity of 6,000 liters each.
During distillation, the liquid is heated and the alcohol vapors rise through the still, condensing and being collected in the spirit safe. This careful process allows the distillers to separate the undesirable impurities and concentrate the desirable flavors, creating a whiskey of exceptional quality.
Once the distillation is complete, the liquid is transferred to oak barrels for maturation. The Dublin Liberties distillery takes great pride in their selection of barrels, which play a significant role in shaping the final flavor profile of the whiskey. The barrels are carefully sourced and often previously used for aging other spirits, such as bourbon or sherry, adding additional layers of complexity to the whiskey.
The maturation process is a patient one, with the whiskey aging for several years, allowing it to develop its unique character and flavors. The barrels are stored in the distillery's warehouse, where they are subjected to the natural elements, including temperature changes and the interaction with the wood. This interaction imparts flavors from the oak, such as vanilla, spice, and caramel, further enhancing the whiskey's complexity.
Once the whiskey has reached its desired maturity, it is carefully blended by the master distillers at the Dublin Liberties distillery. These experts have an intimate knowledge of the various barrels and their flavors, allowing them to create a harmonious blend that showcases the best characteristics of each whiskey.
The end result is the Dubliner Irish Whiskey, a spirit that embodies the rich history and heritage of Irish whiskey-making. Its smoothness, complexity, and depth of flavor are a testament to the skill and dedication of the distillers at the Dublin Liberties distillery.
The Dubliner Irish Whiskey is made by the talented team at the Dublin Liberties distillery, utilizing a meticulous process that includes six tonne mashing, triple distillation, and careful barrel selection. The result is a whiskey that is truly a taste of Dublin's finest craftsmanship.