Ireland’s Smallest Distillery Launches New VIP Tour Ahead of International Irish Whiskey Day
Brendan Carty, Founder & Master Distiller at Killowen
Tucked into the foothills of the Mourne Mountains in County Down, Killowen Distillery - officially Ireland’s smallest distillery - has long been known as one of the island’s most characterful smallbatch producers. And with International Irish Whiskey Day on 3 March fast approaching, the team behind its distinctive spirits is opening its doors in a new way, unveiling an intimate VIP experience so exclusive and handcrafted it feels like being granted access to a secret society of whiskey makers - a rare opportunity for travellers looking to get closer to the craft.
This elevated offering builds on Killowen’s regular monthly tour, where guests sample the distillery’s core range, including Pangur Irish Poitín, the Signature Style Rum & Raisin Single Malt and its peated version, alongside Killowen’s gins and the much-loved Gloria coffee liqueur. But the VIP experience goes far beyond the standard visit, by offering a more intimate, sensory-rich encounter for whiskey fans seeking something truly special.
A Private Encounter with Killowen’s Craft
Led personally by Master Distiller Brendan Carty, the VIP tour gives guests rare access to the heart of Killowen’s production. Brendan’s deep knowledge, storytelling and passion for traditional distilling methods bring the entire process to life in a way few distilleries can match.
Adding to the atmosphere, the experience features live music from Killowen’s resident piper, a nod to the area’s cultural heritage and a memorable backdrop to the tour.
Killowen Distillery
Exclusive Cask Sampling and Local Chocolate Pairings
A standout moment of the VIP experience is the opportunity to taste directly from a maturing cask in the distillery’s cask store - something not offered on the regular tour. This straight from the source tasting gives visitors a glimpse of Killowen’s spirit in its purest, most evolving form.
The tour also includes a chocolate pairing from NearyNogs, Ireland’s first craft bean-to-bar chocolatier. Based locally, NearyNogs’ small-batch creations complement Killowen’s spirits beautifully and add another layer of regional authenticity.
Killowen Distillery Product Line up
Extend Your Mourne Mountains Escape
For those looking to extend their visit there are two standout experiences nearby. Visitors who enjoyed the NearyNogs chocolate pairing at Killowen can continue the experience with a tour of the chocolatier’s nearby bean-to-bar facility, a fragrant, hands on journey into small-batch chocolate making. And for travellers seeking somewhere special to unwind, Rostrevor Mountain Lodge provides stylish accommodation complete with a relaxing sauna, an ideal retreat after an afternoon of whiskey tasting.
Whether you’re a whiskey devotee or a curious traveller seeking a deeper connection to Ireland’s craft culture, Killowen’s new VIP experience offers a rare and memorable journey into the spirit of the Mournes.
How to Book
The Private VIP Tour is offered on a limited, request-only basis via email.