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Discover the craft behind world-class Irish spirits at Blackwater Distillery in Ballyduff. Join a guided 45-minute tour and tasting for a firsthand look at traditional methods and award-winning gin and whisky.
Discover the craft behind world-class Irish spirits at Blackwater Distillery in Ballyduff. Join a guided 45-minute tour and tasting for a firsthand look at traditional methods and award-winning gin and whisky.
Book with Blackwater Distillery
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Operated by Blackwater Distillery · Ballyduff, County Waterford
Located in the heart of Ballyduff, County Waterford, Ireland, Blackwater Distillery offers a unique and engaging tour that invites visitors to explore the centuries-old craft of distillation alongside modern innovation. This experience is a must for spirits enthusiasts and curious travelers who want to discover how Blackwater’s acclaimed gin, whisky, and vodka come to life. Over a focused 45-minute tour, small groups of up to 20 guests get exclusive access to the production areas where the distillery’s master distillers demonstrate artisanal methods still deeply rooted in tradition. What sets Blackwater apart in Ireland’s vibrant whiskey scene is the blend of maverick spirit and reverence for heritage, all led by founder Peter Mulryan and Head Distiller John Wilcox, whose passion brings the craft vividly to life.
The tour offers not just a peek behind the curtain but a layered sensory discovery: guests sample the distillery’s precious new-make whisky, alongside their distinctive gins, such as the No.5 and Wexford Strawberry Gin. The tasting culminates in a signature Blackwater No.5 Gin & tonic, served in the gallery bar overlooking the distillery floor, creating an immersive atmosphere that pairs education with enjoyment. The botanical richness of the gin highlights the unique local ingredients and reflects the surrounding lush Irish landscape.
Located on Church Road, this working distillery is wheelchair accessible and welcomes both individuals and groups looking for a concise yet rich encounter with Irish distilling culture. Ballyduff itself provides a charming rural backdrop, making the distillery visit a perfect complement to exploring the wider County Waterford region, known for its coastal walks and historic sites.
This guided tour not only introduces visitors to a world-class selection of spirits but also connects them to the cultural fabric of Waterford’s continuing distillation tradition. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or a newcomer to spirits, the combination of expert storytelling, hands-on tasting, and beautiful views makes this a standout experience in Ireland’s growing craft distillery landscape. Booking in advance is advised given the maximum group size, ensuring a personal and interactive visit.
For those curious about the art and science behind their favorite drinks, Blackwater Distillery’s tour offers a genuine insight, enriching any trip through Ireland’s southeast with flavors and stories to savor long after the visit ends.
easy.
45 minutes.
Suitable for all fitness levels as the tour involves minimal walking at a gentle pace.
Yes, Blackwater Distillery is wheelchair accessible, allowing visitors with mobility needs to fully participate.
Groups up to 20 people are welcome; it’s recommended to book in advance to accommodate your group.
Guests sample new-make whisky, vodka, and award-winning gins including Blackwater No.5 and Wexford Strawberry Gin.
Yes, the distillery offers a selection of their spirits for purchase to take home after your visit.
All participants must be 18 years or older to join the tasting tour, in line with Irish law.
The guided tour lasts approximately 45 minutes, including the tasting session.
Blackwater Distillery combines modern techniques with historical Irish distillation traditions influenced by Waterford’s agricultural heritage.
The distillery follows sustainable practices, including sourcing local botanicals and minimizing waste throughout production.
Blackwater Distillery, located in Ballyduff, County Waterford, is a craft distillery focused on producing small-batch gin, whisky and vodka. The distillery offers guided experiences that introduce visitors to the production process, botanical selection and distillation techniques led by the founder and head distiller. Tours provide behind-the-scenes access to stills, maturation areas and tasting stations, with contextual stories about recipes and local inspiration. Visits include two main experiences: a Guided Distillery Tour & Cocktail Masterclass and a Guided Distillery Tour & Tasting. The Cocktail Masterclass pairs a hands-on session with aromatic botanicals and practical instruction, and concludes with a Blackwater No.5 Gin & tonic to take home. The Guided Tour & Tasting showcases samples of new-make whisky, vodka and gin and ends with a complimentary Blackwater No.5 Gin & tonic enjoyed on-site. The distillery places emphasis on craft production and guest engagement. Information presented on tours is delivered by experienced staff, including the founder and head distiller, who explain traditional and modern distillation practices. Photogenic views of the distillery setting complement the tasting experience. Blackwater Distillery is suitable for visitors seeking educational tours, cocktail instruction or spirit tastings in County Waterford. Booking details and availability for each experience are provided by the distillery. The presentation of spirits, guided storytelling and tasting opportunities support transparency about production methods and flavour profiles. Visitors can enjoy Blackwater No.5 Gin & tonic while taking in stunning distillery views. Experiences focus on hands-on learning, botanical engagement and tasting with commentary from the founder and head distiller.
Book with Blackwater Distillery