Ahascragh Distillery, an energised zero-emissions distillery, has officially opened in Co. Galway.
Details
Built within a restored 19th century mill, guests will tour this distillery, exploring whiskey and gin production from grain to glass and the history of an old mill.
The eco-distillery is powered by renewable energy - wind, solar and coming soon, hydro - using very high temperature heat pump technology and an energy efficient storage system. As no fossil fuels or gas will be used to drive the production process, there will be no carbon emissions from the energy supply side of the distillery. As a result, the spirit to flow from Ahascragh Distillery can be classified as zero emissions, minimising the impact to the local environment.
With an overall investment of €10 million, this project has created over 20 direct jobs in the rural village of Ahascragh and surrounding areas. The company will also support a further 60-70 indirect jobs through local supply chains.
Statements
Gareth McAllister, founder of Ahascragh Distillery, said, "The opening of Ahascragh Distillery as Ireland's first energised zero-emissions distillery marks a step forward for the whiskey industry and a commitment to a greener future. The distillery will attract whiskey and gin enthusiasts but people will also be very interested in our zero-emissions technology. This is new and innovative technology for the industry and really sets Ahascragh Distillery apart."
Michelle McAllister added, "Over the past two years, we have watched the building come back to life. We have restored the stonework, salvaged the mill equipment and protected the buildings charm. It has been a labour of love, not only for Gareth and I, but for our entire team and the community. The visitor experience will celebrate the history and future of the building. We are excited to showcase the distillery, the village and our award-winning whiskeys and gin to the world!"
"We want to continue to grow this family and we are going a step further, offering the wider community the opportunity to own shares in Ireland’s first fully energised zero-emissions distillery and be a part of our journey to making whiskey history," Gareth added.
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