Dunville's Irish Whiskey is currently being produced at the Echlinville Distillery, located in Northern Ireland. As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of visiting the distillery and witnessing firsthand the meticulous process of crafting this iconic Belfast brand.
The Echlinville Distillery, situated on the stunning Ards Peninsula, is a place of true craftsmanship and dedication to producing exceptional spirits. It was founded with the goal of reviving Dunville's Irish Whiskey and restoring it to its former glory. The team at Echlinville understood the historical significance and the rich heritage behind Dunville's, and they were determined to bring “The Spirit of Belfast” back to the world.
The production of Dunville's Irish Whiskey at Echlinville begins with carefully selected grains, including malted barley, which is the primary ingredient in whiskey production. The distillery sources its barley from local farmers, ensuring the highest quality and a true sense of terroir. The grains are then milled and mixed with water to create a mash, which is then fermented to convert the starches into alcohol.
Once the fermentation process is complete, the liquid, known as wash, undergoes distillation in copper pot stills. These traditional stills play a crucial role in shaping the character and flavor profile of the whiskey. The distillation process consists of multiple stages, including the stripping run and the spirit run, which help to concentrate and refine the alcohol.
After distillation, the new-make spirit is transferred to oak casks for maturation. Echlinville takes great care in selecting the right casks to impart the desired flavors and aromas to Dunville's Irish Whiskey. The distillery uses a combination of bourbon, sherry, and port casks, each contributing its unique characteristics to the final product.
Maturation is a patient process that can take several years, during which the whiskey interacts with the wood, extracting flavors and developing complexity. The climate and environment of Northern Ireland play a significant role in this maturation process, as the whiskey experiences the sea air and the distinct seasons, which influence its aging.
Once the whiskey has reached its desired maturity, it is carefully blended by the master blenders at Echlinville. They utilize their expertise to create a harmonious balance of flavors, ensuring that each bottle of Dunville's Irish Whiskey delivers an exceptional drinking experience.
It is worth mentioning that Echlinville Distillery not only produces Dunville's Irish Whiskey but also a range of other premium spirits, including gin and vodka. This versatility and dedication to craftsmanship are evident in every aspect of their production.
Dunville's Irish Whiskey is made with passion and reverence for its rich history at the Echlinville Distillery in Northern Ireland. The distillery's commitment to quality, from sourcing the finest ingredients to employing traditional distillation techniques and careful maturation, is what sets Dunville's apart as a truly exceptional whiskey.