Kilbeggan Irish Whiskey

Kilbeggan is Ireland’s oldest licensed distillery, with a heritage dating back to 1757 and a reputation for crafting smooth, approachable Irish whiskey that honours traditional methods. Located in the small town of Kilbeggan in County Westmeath, the distillery has been at the heart of the local community for over two and a half centuries, surviving changing tastes, economic hardship, and even long periods of closure before its revival in the 21st century.

The Oldest Licensed Distillery in Ireland

Kilbeggan’s distilling history began when Matthew MacManus was granted a license in 1757. The site’s location on the River Brosna provided a steady water supply, while the surrounding farmland yielded high-quality barley. Over the centuries, the distillery grew into a respected name in Irish whiskey, remaining family-run until the late 19th century.

Like many Irish distilleries, Kilbeggan faced severe challenges during the early 20th century, Prohibition in the US, the Irish War of Independence, and economic decline — which eventually led to its closure in 1957. Remarkably, the local community kept the spirit of Kilbeggan alive, maintaining the old distillery building and equipment until it could reopen decades later.

Revival and Modern Era

In 2007, the Kilbeggan Distilling Company, part of Beam Suntory, officially resumed production at the historic site. While much of the whiskey still comes from the company’s larger Cooley Distillery, Kilbeggan has returned to small-scale distilling on-site, using both modern equipment and heritage apparatus, including one of the world’s oldest working pot stills.

Production and Style

Kilbeggan produces both blended and single grain Irish whiskey, adhering to the triple-distillation method for smoothness and lightness. Maturation takes place in oak casks, often ex-bourbon barrels, which impart vanilla sweetness and gentle spice.

While traditional in style, Kilbeggan has also experimented with unique mash bills and finishes, offering drinkers both classic and innovative expressions.

Heritage Experience

Visitors to the Kilbeggan Distillery can see the original waterwheel, traditional mash tuns, and the iconic pot still in action, providing a rare window into whiskey-making history. The site’s combination of heritage and modern craft underscores Kilbeggan’s position as a living link to Ireland’s whiskey past.

Our Selection

Our Kilbeggan range highlights the distillery’s easy-drinking blended whiskey, characterful single grain, and innovative rye expressions. Whether enjoyed neat, with a splash of water, or in classic cocktails like the Irish Coffee or Whiskey Sour, Kilbeggan offers a genuine taste of Irish whiskey history, smooth, balanced, and steeped in tradition since 1757.