Galway: Traditional Irish Poitin & Gin Distillery Tour

Discover the captivating world of traditional Irish spirits at the Galway: Traditional Irish Poitín & Gin Distillery Tour. Nestled within the historic Micil Distillery, this immersive experience invites visitors to uncover the rich heritage and intricate craftsmanship behind the creation of Micil Poitín and Micil Gin. Led by the current head distiller, Pádraic, the tour promises an engaging exploration of unique distillation techniques and the family’s enduring legacy. Whether you’re a connoisseur or simply curious, this tour offers a chance to savor the flavors and appreciate the cultural significance of these iconic Irish libations.

Good To Know

• Explore the 170-year-old Micil Distillery in Galway, Ireland, and learn about the history and craft of traditional Irish poitín and gin.
• Enjoy a tasting experience featuring Micil’s award-winning poitín and gin, showcasing the exceptional flavors and heritage of these Irish spirits.
• Gain insights into the family-run distillery’s unique distilling techniques and the challenges faced by the Micil family over generations.
• Tour the distillery and witness the craftsmanship involved in producing these traditional Irish spirits, with accessibility options for all visitors.
• Participate in the tour only if you are at least 18 years old, with a valid ID required for age verification.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Exploring the History of Irish Spirits

The tour provides an insightful exploration into the rich history of Irish spirits, tracing their origins from the traditional poitín to the modern artisanal gin.

Participants will explore the fascinating story behind these beloved beverages, learning about the family heritage that has shaped the Micil Distillery‘s operations since 1848.

From the illicit production of poitín during times of prohibition to the contemporary revival of Irish gin, the tour offers a comprehensive understanding of the evolving landscape of Irish spirits.

Guests will come away with a newfound appreciation for the craftsmanship and cultural significance of these time-honored libations.

Inside the Family-Run Distillery

Visitors to the Micil Distillery in Galway embark on a behind-the-scenes exploration of this family-run operation. Established in 1848, the distillery has been passed down through generations, with the current head distiller, Pádraic, carrying on the legacy.

Guests learn about the intricate process of crafting traditional Irish poitín and gin, from sourcing the finest local ingredients to the meticulous distillation methods.

They’ll also have the opportunity to hear directly from the founder’s descendant, Micil Mac Chearra, who shares the rich history and unique family traditions that have shaped the distillery’s enduring success.

The tour culminates in a tasting, allowing guests to savor the exceptional flavors that have made Micil’s spirits renowned.

Tasting the Poitin and Gin

After exploring the distillery’s history and production process, guests then have the chance to sample the fruits of Micil’s labor. During the tasting, guests will enjoy two premium samples – one of Micil’s traditional Irish poitin and another of their signature gin. The table below outlines the tasting experience in more detail:

Product	Tasting Notes
Micil Poitin	A smooth, complex poitin with hints of citrus and spice. Distilled from malted barley and potatoes.
Micil Gin	A juniper-forward gin with botanicals including angelica root, cinnamon, and wild Irish coastal herbs.

This tasting provides an insightful look into the exceptional quality and heritage of Micil’s distilled spirits, leaving guests with a newfound appreciation for traditional Irish distilling.

Learning From the Distiller’s Expertise

During the tasting, guests have the opportunity to gain valuable insights directly from the distiller.

The current head distiller, Pádraic, shares the family’s rich history, dating back to 1848 when the founder, Micil Mac Chearra, first began producing poitín.

Pádraic delves into the intricate process of distilling both poitín and gin, explaining the unique techniques and ingredients that give these spirits their distinct flavors.

Visitors learn about the challenges and innovations the distillery has faced over the generations, as well as Pádraic’s own role in continuing the family tradition.

This intimate interaction with the distiller provides a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship and passion behind each bottle.

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Wheelchair Accessibility and Private Tours

According to the tour information, the Galway Distillery Tour offers wheelchair accessibility, catering to visitors with mobility needs. This is a key feature, ensuring everyone can enjoy the immersive experience.

The tour also provides a private group option, allowing for a more personalized and intimate exploration of the distillery. Whether you’re a small group of friends or a larger party, the private tour lets you delve deeper into the history and process behind the traditional Irish spirits.

This flexibility caters to diverse preferences, making the Galway Distillery Tour accessible and accommodating for all.

Booking Information and Cancellation Policy

The tour offers a flexible booking process, allowing visitors to reserve their spot without upfront payment. Customers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy, which permits cancellations up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The tour’s availability can be checked online, providing visitors with the option to select their preferred starting time.

Booking Information
Reserve now & pay later	Book your spot without upfront payment
Free cancellation	Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
Check availability	View starting times

The tour’s accessibility and private group option further enhance the overall experience for guests.

Experience Highlights and Inclusions

The tour offers an immersive experience for visitors, providing insight into the history of Irish spirits and the opportunity to visit a working distillery.

Guests will enjoy two tastings – one of poitín and one of gin – while learning about the family-run operation, from its founding in 1848 by Micil Mac Chearra to the current head distiller, Pádraic.

The tour details include the tastings and a private tour option, if selected.

It’s important to note that the tour isn’t suitable for children under 18 years old, and participants must provide a valid ID card.

Important Requirements for Participants

Participant age and identification requirements are essential for this distillery tour. Participants must be 18 years or older to join the experience, as it involves tastings of poitin and gin.

Proof of age, such as a valid ID card, is required upon arrival. Copies of the ID card are accepted, allowing flexibility for the participants.

These policies ensure the tour adheres to local laws and provides a safe, responsible environment for all guests. Enforcing the age limit also enhances the overall experience, enabling participants to fully appreciate the history and flavors of the traditional Irish spirits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

No, participants are not permitted to bring their own food or drinks on this tour. The tour includes 2 tastings of the distillery’s poitin and gin, which are provided as part of the experience.

Do I Need to Book in Advance?

To book this tour, you’ll need to reserve your spot in advance. Booking ahead is recommended, as there’s a limited number of participants per tour. The tour can be booked online and paid for later.

Is There Parking Available at the Distillery?

The distillery’s website does not mention any parking information. However, it is located on Upper Salthill Road in Galway, so there may be street parking available nearby. Visitors should check with the distillery for specific parking details.

Can I Take Photos During the Tour?

Taking photos during the tour is typically allowed, though visitors are advised to check with the tour guide beforehand. Many distilleries encourage photography to capture the experience, but there may be some restrictions in certain areas.

Are There Any Discounts or Package Deals Available?

The tour doesn’t explicitly mention any discounts or package deals. However, customers may want to check the distillery’s website or contact them directly to inquire about any promotional offers or bundled experiences that might be available.

The Sum Up

The Galway: Traditional Irish Poitín & Gin Distillery Tour offers a unique opportunity to take in the rich heritage of Irish spirits. Visitors can explore the history, learn from the distiller’s expertise, and taste the distinctive flavors of Micil Poitín and Gin. This engaging experience celebrates the craftsmanship and cultural significance of these traditional Irish spirits.

You can check if your dates are available here: