Whiskey Tasting at Sliabh Liag Distillers - Ardara
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1 hour
Fitness Level
No special fitness required; suitable for most visitors comfortable walking short distances.
Overview
Step into Ardara Distillery and experience a whiskey tour that honors Donegal’s smoky heritage. Discover traditional techniques paired with modern craft during an engaging tasting experience.
Ardara Distillery Tasting Tour
Discover the spirit of tradition at Ardara Distillery!
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About This Adventure
Discover the rich heritage of Irish whiskey at The Ardara Distillery, where traditional smoky distilling methods meet modern expertise. Enjoy an engaging tour led by knowledgeable guides, culminating in a unique tasting experience. Explore the distillery shop and immerse yourself in Donegal's vibrant distilling culture before your next adventure.
Duration: 1 Hour
Head through the doors of The Ardara Distillery and appreciate an alternative side of Irish whiskey making. One that honours the methods of our illicit fore fathers and is inspired by the almost lost tradition for a smoky style of spirit, brought up to date with the very best distillation know-how. During your tour you will learn about the history of Donegal’s immense distilling heritage and see skilled workers breathing new life into it. You will finish your tour with a tutored tasting lead by our expert guides and have time to shop in our distillery shop, open from 10:30am to 5pm, before you move on to your next adventure.
Important to Know
- Smoking, vaping and any naked flames are prohibited in and around the distillery buildings.
- Please wear suitable footwear to visit the working area of the distillery. No open toe sandals, high heeled shoes, flip flops or crocs.
- Please check in at least 10 minutes before your tour time.
- Children must be over 8 years of age to join a distillery tour.
- The distillery tours are fully accessible for wheelchair users.
- Guide dogs only.
Adventure Tips
Wear Appropriate Footwear
Closed-toe shoes are required to navigate the working distillery safely; leave sandals and flip-flops behind.
Arrive Early to Check In
Plan to arrive at least 10 minutes before your scheduled tour for smooth entry and orientation.
No Smoking or Flames
Smoking, vaping, and open flames are prohibited in and around the distillery buildings for safety reasons.
Tours Suitable for Ages 8+
Children over eight years old can join the tour, making it a family-friendly cultural outing.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Red Squirrel – a shy native species often spotted in the surrounding woodlands.
- Peregrine Falcon – sometimes seen hunting along coastal cliffs close to Ardara.
History
Donegal has a long history of illicit whiskey distilling, where families passed down secret smoky recipes, influencing today’s Ardara Distillery methods.
Conservation
Sliabh Liag Distillers embraces sustainable production practices, minimizing waste and promoting responsible sourcing to protect Donegal’s natural heritage.
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Adventure Hotspots in Derry
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Closed-toe Footwear
Protect your feet while touring the working distillery environments.
Light Jacket
Spring in Donegal can be cool indoors and outdoors; a light jacket keeps you comfortable.
spring specific
Camera or Smartphone
Capture the distinct distillery interior and vibrant Donegal surroundings.
Umbrella or Raincoat
Fall weather can be unpredictable; stay dry between tours and local adventures.
fall specific