Galway: Traditional Irish Poitin & Gin Distillery Tour

Lift the veil on Galway's distilling legacy at the Micil Distillery, where a captivating tour unveils the secrets of Ireland's iconic poitín and gin.

Galway’s distilling heritage comes alive at the Micil Distillery, where a 75-minute tour delves into the timeless traditions of Irish poitín and gin. Led by the head distiller, Pádraic, visitors uncover stories dating back to 1848 and gain exclusive insights into the production process. With two tastings of the distillery’s award-winning creations, this experience promises a captivating exploration of the challenges and techniques that have shaped this unique Irish craft. What secrets lie within the walls of this historic distillery?

Key Points

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  • 75-minute tour of a working distillery in Galway, with tastings of traditional poitín and award-winning gin crafted with local botanicals.
  • Tour conducted in English, wheelchair accessible, and accommodates up to 8 participants with a private option available.
  • Pricing starts from €332.27 per group, with no upfront payment required and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
  • Explore the heritage and history of poitín and gin distilling in Galway, with insights from the current head distiller.
  • Experience the craftsmanship behind the local spirits and appreciate Galway’s rich distilling legacy.
You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

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The Galway: Traditional Irish Poitin & Gin Distillery Tour is a 75-minute activity that allows up to 8 participants to explore a working distillery in Galway.

A 75-minute tour allowing up to 8 visitors to explore a working distillery in Galway.

Conducted in English, the tour is wheelchair accessible and a private option is available.

Visitors can expect to sample 2 tastings of poitín and gin, learn about the history of these traditional Irish spirits, and hear stories from the distillery’s founding in 1848 to the present day.

The tour takes place at the Micil Distillery, located at 226 Upper Salthill Road, and participants must be 18 or older with valid ID.

Pricing and Booking

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The Galway: Traditional Irish Poitin & Gin Distillery Tour costs from €332.27 per group.

Customers can reserve now and pay later, with no payment required upfront. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The tour lasts 75 minutes and accommodates up to 8 participants, with a private option available. It’s accessible for wheelchair users and conducted in English.

Participants must be 18 or older and bring a valid ID card.

With an overall 5/5 rating based on customer reviews, this tour offers excellent value for money.

Experience Highlights

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Highlights of the Galway: Traditional Irish Poitin & Gin Distillery Tour include two tastings of poitín and gin, offering participants a chance to experience the flavors of these traditional Irish spirits.

The tour also includes a visit to the working distillery, providing an inside look at the production process. Guests will learn about the rich history of poitín and gin distilling in Galway, dating back to the founder Micil Mac Chearra in 1848.

Current head distiller Pádraic shares stories that connect the past to the present, giving a personal touch to the experience.

Meeting Point

Where’s the meeting point for the Galway: Traditional Irish Poitin & Gin Distillery Tour?

The tour meets at the Micil Distillery, located at 226 Upper Salthill Road, Galway, H91 N9WK, Ireland.

The Micil Distillery is situated within the Oslo Bar, making it an easy-to-find location.

The meeting point highlights:

  1. Address: 226 Upper Salthill Road, Galway, H91 N9WK, Ireland

  2. Location: Micil Distillery (at Oslo Bar)

  3. Easily accessible meeting point for the tour participants.

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Historical Insight

As part of the Galway: Traditional Irish Poitín & Gin Distillery Tour, guests can expect to gain valuable historical insight into the rich heritage of poitín and gin distilling in the Galway region.

The tour explores the legacy of the original founder, Micil Mac Chearra, who began distilling in 1848. Guests will hear fascinating stories about the trials and tribulations faced by poitín and gin producers throughout the centuries, from legal restrictions to social stigma.

The tour culminates with a discussion of the current head distiller, Pádraic, and how he continues the family tradition with modern techniques and premium products.

Family Legacy

The Galway: Traditional Irish Poitín & Gin Distillery Tour also highlights the family legacy that has shaped the distillery over generations.

Participants will hear stories from the original founder Micil Mac Chearra (1848) to the current head distiller Pádraic.

The tour showcases:

  1. The generational knowledge and expertise passed down through the family, from distilling techniques to family recipes.

  2. The perseverance of the family in keeping the distillery operational during periods of poitín prohibition.

  3. The family’s commitment to preserving Galway’s rich distilling heritage and traditions.

Distillery Visit

Participants on the Galway: Traditional Irish Poitín & Gin Distillery Tour get an exclusive look inside the working distillery, witnessing the meticulous process of crafting Ireland’s national spirit.

They’ll see the copper pot stills, smell the aromatic botanicals, and learn the intricate techniques that give poitín and gin their distinctive flavors.

The tour provides a fascinating glimpse into the history and heritage of distilling in Galway, where the Micil family has been producing spirits since 1848.

It’s an immersive experience that brings the art of Irish distilling to life.

Tastings

During the Galway: Traditional Irish Poitín & Gin Distillery Tour, participants can expect to sample two unique local spirits – poitín and gin.

The tour includes:

  1. Two tastings of poitín, the traditional Irish spirit with a rich history.

  2. Two tastings of the distillery’s award-winning gin, crafted using local botanicals.

  3. Insightful commentary from the knowledgeable guide on the production methods and distinctive flavors of these artisanal spirits.

These tastings provide an opportunity for guests to appreciate the skill and craftsmanship behind Galway’s distilling legacy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

The tour does not allow participants to bring their own food or drinks. Guests must consume only the poitín and gin tastings provided as part of the distillery experience.

Is Photography Allowed During the Distillery Visit?

Photography is generally allowed during distillery visits, though visitors should check with the tour guide or staff beforehand. Many distilleries welcome photos to capture the experience, but some may have restrictions for safety or privacy reasons.

Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?

There is no specific dress code for the tour. Visitors should dress comfortably and appropriately for the activity. Casual attire is generally acceptable, though participants may want to avoid overly casual or informal clothing.

What Is the Policy on Tipping the Tour Guide?

There is no mandatory tipping policy for tour guides. Tipping is at the discretion of the participant and based on their satisfaction with the guide’s performance and the overall tour experience.

Can I Buy Additional Bottles of Poitín or Gin After the Tour?

Yes, visitors can purchase additional bottles of poitín or gin after the tour. The distillery typically offers the option to buy products directly from the facility at the end of the experience.

The Sum Up

The Traditional Irish Poitín & Gin Distillery Tour at Micil Distillery offers an immersive experience into Galway’s rich distilling heritage. Guests can explore the production process, learn about the family legacy, and taste the award-winning poitín and gin crafted with local botanicals. It’s a unique opportunity to discover the challenges and techniques that have shaped this distinctive Irish craft.

You can check availability for your dates here: