Midleton, Co. Cork is home to Ireland’s largest distillery which produces some household whiskey brands including Jameson, Powers and Midleton. Jameson in particular is an international success story, with 40% of sales being achieved in the U.S.A. The “Jameson Experience” offers the ultimate experience in all things that make the whiskey journey a success from production, fermenting and distilling. Here are 5 reasons you should visit.
Fully submersive experience. The original Jameson site was Bow Street in Dublin which opened in 1780. In 1971, production moved to a much larger site in Midleton, Co. Cork where production continues until this day. The Jameson Experience is open in both Dublin and Cork locations, but the Cork tour offers a submersive experience of the working facility which operates today. Visitors and whiskey aficionados make the trip to Midleton to experience the history and production of this world-famous whiskey. The tour enjoys rave reviews and gives great insight into the hard work founder John Jameson invested in making the best-selling Irish whiskey in the world.
See the world’s largest pot still. Built in 1825, this Pot Still can hold an impressive 143,000 litres or 31,000 gallons of whiskey. The pot still, which is no longer in use can still be seen inside the old still room at the Old Distillery. The production of Irish single pot still whiskey is unique to Ireland.
Cask Opening Experience. Taste whiskey straight from the cask in this unique element of the tour. Maturing is an important step in the whiskey production process and Jameson Whiskey is aged in oak casks for a minimum of 4 years. This process comes after the whiskey has been triple distilled, giving it its signature smooth taste. On this part of the tour, you will learn about the maturing process whiskey must undergo before it can be bottled and sold, the highlight being the chance to draw some straight from the cask and taste.
Learn the science behind spirit production. Perfect for any science boffins, a trip to the craft distillery room is akin to visiting a science lab. It is here that distillery experts invest time and creativity to craft the best new recipes, whilst honouring historic recipes once produced by John Jameson himself. This is the epicentre of creativity and will give a bird’s eye view of everything that goes into producing a quality recipe.
Dine in style. Enhance your Jameson Experience by finishing the tour with a delicious meal at the Malthouse Restaurant. The restaurant serves stunning local seafood dishes, accompanied by a range of whiskies and Jameson cocktails. The perfect way to finish off a great experience.
