William Lavelle, head of Drinks Ireland/Irish Whiskey has said many distilleries and brand homes have introduced new visitor offerings and more intimate tourist experiences in the wake of COVID-19.
Drinks Ireland/Irish Whiskey have today launched their IrishWhiskey360° 'Get Back Into The Spirit' campaign to promote Irish whiskey tourism.
“Smaller tour sizes, private tastings, new cocktail and food pairings, and collaborations with local businesses are just some of the ways our members are adapting their offerings as they reopen,” he said.
“Safety is obviously a key focus for all our visitor centres – they have reduced their tour sizes and introduced all the necessary requirements to ensure social distancing can be adhered to," Lavelle added.
New Visitor Offerings
Some of the distilleries and visitor centres that are reopening with new offerings include:
Clonakilty Distillery, Co. Cork, is offering smaller, later tours on Friday and Saturday evenings.
Roe & Co. Distillery in Dublin, is inviting groups of up to six people, where they can experience a cocktail-making workshop. Visitors will have the opportunity to 'discover the five pillars of flavours in whiskey'.
Tullamore Dew, Co. Offaly, is offering intimate-sized tours, and whiskey and food pairings.
“Irish whiskey visitor centres are not just for whiskey fans – they offer a cultural and historical experience, where visitors can learn about how whiskey is made, the history of the local area, taste whiskey and sample local cuisine," Lavelle said.
"Whether you’re a couple looking for a fun date experience, or a group of friends looking to catch up after a difficult few months, I would urge people to get back into the spirit of discovery and friendship, and support local brands, by including an Irish whiskey visitor centre in your summer plans,” he added.
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