Lough Mask Distillery in Co. Mayo has become the first distillery in Ireland to be granted a licence to sell its gin, vodka and whiskey to members of the public on its premises under the Intoxicating Liquor (Breweries and Distilleries) Act 2018.
The Breweries and Distilleries Act, which was passed in July, means that 'craft brewers and distillers can sell their products on site to visitors, without the need to acquire a full licence', the Alcohol Beverage Federation of Ireland (ABFI) outlined in a statement.
“Brewery and distillery visitor centres are important for Ireland’s tourism offer and are particularly vital for driving tourists to rural counties,” Patricia Callan, (ABFI) said.
“The Breweries and Distilleries Act, which we successfully campaigned on, supports Ireland’s brewery and distillery visitor centres, which continue to go from strength to strength.”
Vistor Numbers Increase
According to Callan, last year, there were 2,590,215 visitors to brewery and distillery tourist attractions in Ireland, up from 2,437,206 in 2016.
“We are now working with our members to help them understand the implications of the legislation and guide them through the process of allowing them to sell their products on site,” Callan added.
Lough Mask Distillery's range of spirits include Loch Measc Single Malt Whiskey, Loch Measc Gin, and Loch Measc Vodka.
© 2018 Checkout – your source for the latest Irish retail news. Article by Donna Ahern. Click subscribe to sign up for the Checkout print edition.
