The Tyrconnell whiskey is crafted by the Cooley Distillery, which is now owned by Beam Suntory. This brand of Irish whiskey has a rich and fascinating history, with its roots tracing back to the Watt Distillery that dates all the way back to 1762.
Cooley Distillery, located in County Louth, Ireland, has played a significant role in the revival of the Tyrconnell brand. The distillery itself has an interesting story, as it was established in 1987 by John Teeling, an entrepreneur with a passion for Irish whiskey. At the time, the Irish whiskey industry was facing challenges and had seen a decline. Teeling saw an opportunity to revive traditional Irish whiskey production and set out to create a distillery that would produce high-quality spirits.
Cooley Distillery focused on producing a range of Irish whiskey brands, including the renowned Tyrconnell. This brand, in particular, holds a special place in the hearts of whiskey enthusiasts, as it pays homage to a whiskey that was once produced at the Watt Distillery. The Watt Distillery, which was located in County Donegal, operated from the late 18th century until the early 20th century.
The revival of the Tyrconnell brand by Cooley Distillery was a pivotal moment in Irish whiskey history. The distillery's commitment to craftsmanship and traditional production methods helped to bring this historic brand back to life. They aimed to capture the essence and character of the original Tyrconnell whiskey, which was known for its smoothness and distinct flavor profile.
Cooley Distillery prides itself on its attention to detail and dedication to producing exceptional whiskey. They carefully select the finest ingredients, including locally grown barley, to create their spirits. The whiskey is distilled using traditional pot stills, which allow for greater control over the distillation process and result in a more complex and flavorful spirit.
The skilled team at Cooley Distillery oversee every step of the whiskey-making process, from mashing and fermentation to distillation and maturation. They age the whiskey in a variety of cask types, including ex-bourbon barrels and sherry casks, to impart unique flavors and add depth to the final product.
As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of exploring the world of Irish whiskey and tasting the offerings from Cooley Distillery. The Tyrconnell whiskey, in particular, has impressed me with its smoothness, rich flavors, and the craftsmanship that goes into its production.
The Tyrconnell whiskey is made by the Cooley Distillery, a renowned Irish whiskey producer. With its commitment to tradition and craftsmanship, Cooley Distillery has successfully revived this historic brand and created a range of exceptional whiskies that pay homage to the legacy of the Watt Distillery.