Good Food Ireland® Approved Since 2024
We stand over our recommendations. With exacting selection and regular review processes we ensure a rewarding local Irish ingredient led experience. You can count on it!
Overview
Wild Atlantic Distillery is an award-winning whiskey, gin and vodka distillery based in County Tyrone that draws its inspiration from Ireland’s spectacular rugged coastline. The distillery is located on the outskirts of the charming rural area of Aghyaran (Castlederg) close to the dramatic landscape of the Sperrin Mountains and just 15 miles from the wild beaches on Ireland’s north-western coast. Run by brothers in law and long-standing friends Brian and Jim, who are passionate about maintaining the long history of independent, traditional and craft distilleries in Ireland. This engaging duo ar Read MoreMeet The Maker
The recognition for Wild Atlantic Distillery’s gin extends far beyond local borders. Their gin has been featured in Image Magazine Ireland’s “Top 50 Irish food and drinks experiences to indulge in Christmas 2020” and clinched the prestigious title of World Gin Awards 2021 Best Northern Irish Contemporary Gin. So, if you find yourself in Northern Ireland, a visit to Wild Atlantic Distillery for an unforgettable experience awaits, courtesy of Brian and Jim’s passion and expertise.
Their journey took a significant turn in September 2019. At the Taste of Donegal, a local food and drink festival, they unveiled their inaugural gin to the public. The overwhelmingly positive feedback fuelled their enthusiasm, and they immediately set about building a new distillery adjacent to their humble garden shed.
February 1st, 2020, marked a momentous occasion – the official opening of their new distillery to the local community. Over 200 people celebrated with them, a testament to the community’s support. However, their joy was short-lived. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, they were forced to close down just six weeks later.
Determined to overcome this hurdle, Wild Atlantic Distillery quickly pivoted their production. They began producing hand sanitiser, offering it free of charge to local health centres and care homes. Local businesses could purchase sanitiser at a fair price, a service they continue to provide today. This adaptability allowed them to keep their business afloat during a challenging time.
In 2021, a historic milestone was achieved. Wild Atlantic Distillery proudly revived Irish whiskey production in the Derry/Strabane District in the North West, a feat not witnessed in over 100 years. The closure of the Watt Distillery in 1921 left a void, and Wild Atlantic Distillery is committed to filling it.
As a family-owned distillery, Wild Atlantic takes immense pride in creating all their products in-house. They believe in quality control and refuse to release anything they haven’t meticulously crafted themselves. Their dedication aligns perfectly with the growing trend of independent, traditional, and craft distilleries flourishing in Ireland.
Wild Atlantic Distillery is more than just a business; it’s a testament to innovation, resilience, and a passion for crafting exceptional spirits.
Wild Atlantic Irish Gin:
Their Wild Atlantic Irish Gin is created with a mix of traditional and selected botanicals sourced from the waters of the spectacular Wild Atlantic Way. The Atlantic Ocean provides the organic Sugar Kelp and Dillisk, harvested from the waters of the Porcupine Bank which is hand harvested by the Talty family in Co Clare (Wild Irish Seaweeds) who have been hand harvesting for over 100 years.
The Wild Atlantic Irish Gin logo was inspired by the Porcupine Bank situated off the West Coast of Ireland on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean. The bank is one of the finest examples of cold-water Coral Reefs in the world.
The Bank was named after an ocean sail and paddlewheel research vessel that discovered this unique marine environment with pristine waters in 1862, the Bank was named after this ship.
Wild Strawberry & Elderflower Gin:
They take their Wild Atlantic Irish Gin and marinate with Strawberries and Elderflower to create a 40% ABV truly flavoured Gin that has just won Double Gold at the World Gin Awards, Ireland’s Best flavoured Gin. A sophisticated Gin bursting with Strawberries and Elderflower.
Wild Atlantic Amalfi Lemon Irish Vodka:
Premium Wild Atlantic Amalfi Lemon Irish Vodka is a small batch hand crafted with real Amalfi lemons, using our natural process of extraction, capturing the intense fragrance and balance of acidity that only the best lemons in the world can achieve.
No artificial flavours or additives are used, no added sugar, only fresh Amalfi lemon extract and pure vodka.
Their Vodka is inspired by the legendary Queen of Irish Mythology, Maeve of Connaught, Warrior and Priestess. Maeve was renowned as a passionate Queen whose warriors were willing to die for her because of her intoxicating beauty, passion, and strength. Maeve was known as “She Who Intoxicates” a fitting name for the Goddess of the Wild Atlantic Amalfi Lemon Irish Vodka. Just like Maeve, their Vodka has a strong and unique character.
Wild Atlantic Irish Vodka:
A small batch handcrafted, ultra-premium vodka.
Awards:
Their Wild Atlantic Irish Gin won Gold at the World Gin Awards for Best Northern Irish Contemporary Gin and was shortlisted for Best in the World in 2021.
Their Wild Atlantic Amalfi Lemon Irish Vodka won 2 Bronze at the IWSC in San Francisco in 2021.
In 2024, their Wild Strawberry and Elderflower Gin won Double Gold at the World Gin Awards in London and is currently Ireland’s Best Flavoured Gin.
View Stockists
Other Facilities
Wild Atlantic Distillery beckons you on an immersive adventure into the world of gin and cocktails.
Wild Atlantic Distillery: Where Sustainability Meets Spirit
At Wild Atlantic Distillery, a deep commitment to sustainability and social responsibility underpins everything they do. But their dedication goes beyond just environmental practices; it extends to crafting exceptional spirits steeped in tradition.
A Legacy Revived: Irish Whiskey Returns
Wild Atlantic Distillery proudly holds the distinction of reviving Irish whiskey production in the Derry/Strabane District in the North West, a feat not witnessed in over 100 years. Their meticulous processes and dedication to quality reflect their commitment to honouring this historic tradition.
A Commitment to Quality: From Grain to Glass
Wild Atlantic’s philosophy is evident throughout their distillery. Here, barley is transformed into exceptional spirits through time-tested methods. (For those interested, distillery tours are available, offering a glimpse into this dedication to the craft.)
A Look Ahead: The Maturation Journey
Within the distillery’s warehouse, time itself becomes an ingredient. Here, casks slumber and mature, their contents slowly transforming into the rich, complex whiskey Wild Atlantic is known for. The air itself carries a hint of the future flavours to come, a promise of a truly rewarding experience.
The Grand Finale: A Symphony of Flavours
The distillery’s inviting tasting bar allows you to tantalise your taste buds with a sampling of their exquisite whiskies and handcrafted cocktails. Each sip is a symphony of flavour, a testament to the passion and dedication that pours into every bottle. Whether you discover the smooth depth of their whisky or the refreshing zest of their vodka, you’ll understand why Wild Atlantic Distillery is a leader in the Irish spirits industry.
Start on Your Own Journey of Discovery
Wild Atlantic Distillery offers a world of flavour, steeped in tradition and crafted with a commitment to sustainability and excellence. Explore their award-winning spirits and discover the magic that goes into every bottle.
Purchase Distillery Tour
Sustainability
Wild Atlantic Distillery: Committed to Sustainability and Social Responsibility
At Wild Atlantic Distillery, a deep commitment to sustainability and social responsibility underpins everything they do. They constantly strive to improve their practices and minimise their environmental impact. Here are some key ways they achieve this:
Repurposing Spent Grain: After the barley used in their spirits has served its purpose, it doesn’t go to waste. It’s thoughtfully recycled and delivered to a local farmer. This spent grain becomes a high-protein, natural feed for calves and cattle, reducing waste and supporting local agriculture.
Embracing Organic Botanicals: Wild Atlantic Irish Gin boasts a unique flavour profile thanks to its organic botanicals. These include Dillisk and Kelp seaweed, hand-harvested from the pristine waters of the Atlantic Ocean by the Talty Family in County Clare. This focus on organic ingredients ensures the highest quality while minimising the use of potentially harmful chemicals.
Transparency in Ingredients: When it comes to Wild Atlantic Amalfi Lemon Irish Vodka, there are no hidden ingredients or artificial flavours. Only fresh Amalfi lemon extract, obtained through their natural extraction process, and pure vodka are used. This dedication to transparency allows consumers to make informed choices about what they’re drinking.
Minimising Water Waste: Wild Atlantic Distillery employs a clever “Pump and Dump” system for water usage. The water used in spirit production is meticulously filtered and then recycled in a closed loop. This innovative approach significantly reduces water wastage, a vital step in environmental responsibility.
By implementing these practices and constantly seeking new ways to improve, Wild Atlantic Distillery demonstrates a genuine commitment to sustainability and social responsibility. They are a leader in the Irish spirits industry, setting a positive example for others to follow.
Nearby Experiences
Experiences- Accommodation
- Dining
- Cook & Shop
- Meet the Makers
