The history of Glendalough gin is an intriguing tale that begins with the founding of the Glendalough Distillery by five friends who shared a passion for reviving the heritage of craft distilling in Ireland. These friends, Kevin Keenan, Gary McLoughlin, Barry Gallagher, Brian Fagan, and Donal O'Gallachoir, had a vision to create spirits that were true to Ireland's history and traditions, particularly whiskey and poitin.
Glendalough, a picturesque valley in County Wicklow, Ireland, served as the inspiration and namesake for the distillery. The valley is renowned for its natural beauty, ancient monastic settlement, and rich history, making it a fitting location for a distillery that sought to embrace Ireland's past.
The journey to create Glendalough gin began with the distillery's focus on whiskey production. The team spent years researching and experimenting with traditional distilling methods, sourcing the finest local ingredients, and honing their craft. The result was a range of exceptional Irish whiskeys that showcased the unique character and flavors of the region.
However, the founders of Glendalough Distillery also recognized the growing popularity of gin, both domestically and internationally. They saw an opportunity to create a gin that would reflect the same commitment to quality and craftsmanship that they had applied to their whiskeys. And so, Glendalough gin was born.
Glendalough Distillery's approach to gin production is rooted in a deep respect for nature and the environment. They carefully select botanicals that are native to the Wicklow Mountains and surrounding areas, including wild botanicals foraged by hand. This commitment to using locally sourced ingredients ensures that each batch of Glendalough gin captures the essence of its surroundings.
The distillation process itself is a meticulous affair. The botanicals are macerated in a base spirit, which is then distilled in a traditional copper pot still. This traditional method allows for greater control over the distillation process, resulting in a gin that is rich in flavor and complexity.
One of the unique aspects of Glendalough gin is its use of non-traditional botanicals, which sets it apart from many other gins on the market. For example, their flagship gin, Glendalough Wild Botanical Gin, incorporates botanicals such as douglas fir, hawthorn, and meadowsweet, giving it a distinctive and complex flavor profile.
In addition to their Wild Botanical Gin, Glendalough Distillery also produces a range of other gins, each with its own unique blend of botanicals and flavor profile. These include their seasonal gin releases, which showcase the changing flavors of the Irish countryside throughout the year.
Glendalough gin has garnered recognition and acclaim both in Ireland and internationally. Its dedication to quality, craftsmanship, and the use of locally sourced ingredients has resonated with gin enthusiasts and critics alike. The distillery's commitment to preserving Ireland's distilling heritage while embracing innovation has made Glendalough gin a standout in the world of craft spirits.
The history of Glendalough gin is a story of passion, innovation, and a deep connection to Ireland's distilling traditions. The founders of the Glendalough Distillery set out to create spirits that honored their country's heritage, and in doing so, they have crafted gins that are truly unique and reflective of the natural beauty and flavors of the Wicklow Mountains.