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Overview
Skellig Six18 Distillery, located in the picturesque town of Cahersiveen along Ireland’s renowned Skellig Coast, is a masterful blend of tradition, innovation, and sustainability. Housed in a repurposed textile factory, the distillery takes its name and inspiration from the 618 steps that lead to the monastic retreat on Skellig Michael. This reverence for local heritage is reflected in every detail of its operation, from the use of pure mountain water to its focus on crafting premium Irish spirits. Visitors are treated to an immersive experience that showcases the distillery’s artisanal approach and its deep Read MoreMeet The Maker
Skellig Six18 Distillery draws profound inspiration from the region’s rich heritage and resilient spirit. The distillery’s name pays homage to the 618 stone steps carved by sixth-century monks ascending Skellig Michael, symbolising determination and perseverance. This legacy of grit and resilience is mirrored in the distillery’s ethos, reflecting the steadfast character of the local community that has long thrived amidst the wild beauty of this land and seascape.
Founded by individuals deeply connected to Cahersiveen, Skellig Six18 embodies the adventurous spirit of storytellers and explorers who journey to the world’s far corners yet are invariably drawn back to the Skellig Coast. The distillery’s commitment to crafting premium spirits is deeply rooted in the local landscape, utilizing pure water from nearby mountains and botanicals sourced from the surrounding area. This dedication not only honours the region’s natural resources but also contributes to the local economy, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose.
Crafting the Whiskey and Gin at Skellig Six18
Whiskey Production
At Skellig Six18 Distillery, the art of crafting whiskey is steeped in tradition and shaped by the Atlantic climate of the Skellig Coast. The distillery focuses on producing premium Irish Pot Still Whiskey, a style unique to Ireland, using a combination of malted and unmalted barley. Their whiskey undergoes triple distillation, a time-honoured process that results in a smoother, more refined spirit. The coastal maturation process takes place in the distillery’s warehouse, where the maritime air and steady climate, influenced by the nearby Gulf Stream, create an ideal environment for developing complex flavours. Over time, the casks impart character to the whiskey, resulting in a distinctive and sophisticated expression that reflects the rugged beauty of Cahersiveen.
Gin Crafting
Skellig Six18’s craft gin is a true reflection of the local landscape, carefully distilled in small batches to capture the essence of the Skellig Coast. Using a bespoke copper pot still, the distillery combines traditional distillation methods with a unique selection of botanicals, many of which are foraged from the surrounding area. Local ingredients such as dillisk (seaweed), yarrow, Douglas fir, and birch sap are individually distilled to extract their purest flavours, ensuring a balanced and aromatic profile. The result is a distinctive, smooth gin that carries the freshness of the sea and the wild botanicals of the Skellig region, offering a true taste of Ireland’s southwest coast.
Visitor Experiences
Skellig Six18 Distillery, nestled along Ireland’s Skellig Coast in Cahersiveen, offers immersive tours that delve into the rich history and meticulous craftsmanship behind their premium spirits. Guided by knowledgeable local storytellers, visitors are treated to a sensory journey that intertwines regional myths, historical insights, and the intricate processes of distillation. The distillery’s name pays homage to the 618 steps carved by 6th-century monks on Skellig Michael, a testament to human determination and dedication, themes that resonate throughout the tour.
The award-winning tours, recognised with a Double Gold at the International Spirits Challenge in 2022, offer various experiences tailored to enthusiasts of both gin and whiskey. Options include tastings of their limited-release Six18 Whiskey Step Collection, a triple-casked Single Pot Still whiskey, as well as their artisan gins infused with wild botanicals native to the Skellig coastline. Each tour provides an intimate glimpse into the distillery’s operations, allowing guests to witness the fusion of traditional methods with modern innovation, all while savouring the unique flavours that embody the spirit of the Skellig region.
Experience the Skellig Six18 Distillery Tour
Step into the world of Skellig Six18 Distillery and embark on an unforgettable journey that blends history, craftsmanship, and flavour along Ireland’s stunning Skellig Coast. Located in the heart of Cahersiveen, the distillery tours offer visitors a unique opportunity to explore the artistry behind Skellig Six18’s premium whiskey and gin, all while immersed in the spirit and beauty of the Wild Atlantic Way.
Led by passionate and knowledgeable guides, each tour brings the story of Skellig Six18 to life—from the inspiration of the 618 stone steps on Skellig Michael to the intricate distillation process that makes their spirits so exceptional. Guests will enjoy behind-the-scenes access to the working distillery, where traditional methods meet modern innovation. The experience culminates in a tasting session where visitors can savour Skellig Six18’s artisan gin, crafted with foraged botanicals, or sample their exclusive pot still whiskey, offering a true taste of the region’s character.
Perfect for both whiskey and gin enthusiasts, the Skellig Six18 tour promises more than just a tasting; it’s an immersive encounter with the heritage, determination, and craft of Ireland’s Skellig Coast. Book your tour today and discover the story, the spirit, and the flavour that make Skellig Six18 a destination unlike any other.
Sustainability
Environmental stewardship is at the forefront of Skellig Six18’s mission. The distillery employs 100% recyclable packaging for all products and is committed to using fully recyclable or compostable materials in future releases. Efforts to reduce non-renewable resource usage include working with suppliers to phase out single-use plastics and implementing a sustainable procurement policy to source materials from certified suppliers. Additionally, the distillery plans to install a rainwater harvesting system to further conserve water resources.
Community involvement is equally vital to Skellig Six18’s sustainability ethos. By prioritising local employment and sourcing goods and services from local businesses, the distillery fosters economic growth and stability within the Cahersiveen area. Initiatives such as hosting Aonach Bia events provide platforms for local food producers to showcase their crafts, strengthening community ties and promoting regional development.
Through these comprehensive sustainability efforts, Skellig Six18 Distillery not only produces exceptional spirits but also contributes positively to environmental conservation and the well-being of the local community, embodying a holistic approach to responsible business practices.
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