Viator Rating : 5 (250 reviews)
Belfast
Belfast's McConnell's Distillery Tasting Experience
60
Overview
McConnell's Distillery Experience with Tasting, located in the heart of North Belfast, offers a captivating journey into the world of Irish whiskey. Housed within a beautifully restored listed building, this experience allows visitors to discover the rich history of McConnell’s Irish Whisky, a brand born in Belfast in 1776. It's a great experience for those who want to learn about the history and process of making this spirit.
The tour guides guests through the state-of-the-art distillery, explaining the intricate distilling process. Visitors will learn how McConnell's is being restored globally. A key highlight is the tasting session, where participants can sample award-winning Irish whiskies, including McConnell's 5 Year, McConnell's Sherry Cask, and even 'new make' straight from the stills.
Beyond the tour, the distillery features a shop with gifts, an all-day café, and a fully licensed bar for continued enjoyment. This experience provides a comprehensive look into Belfast's distilling past, set against a landmark backdrop. 
Highlights
Discover Belfast's Whiskey History: Uncover the story of McConnell's Irish Whisky, a brand born in Belfast in 1776.
Taste Award-Winning Whiskies: Sample McConnell's 5 Year, Sherry Cask, and 'new make' straight from the stills.
Explore a State-of-the-Art Distillery: Tour a restored listed building that houses a modern whiskey production facility.
Enjoy a Fully Licensed Bar and Cafe: Relax after the tour with drinks, food, and gifts available on-site.
Sentiment Analysis
Visitors enjoy learning about the history of McConnell's Irish Whisky and the distilling process.
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The whiskey tasting, including the 'new make,' is a popular highlight.
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The tour guides provide engaging and informative commentary.
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The distillery itself, housed in a restored building, adds to the overall experience.
Some visitors may find the tour too focused on the history rather than the production process.
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The 'new make' whiskey taste may not appeal to all palates due to its strong flavor.
The Journey
McConnell's Distillery
A state-of-the-art distillery housed within the restored A Wing of Crumlin Road Gaol in North Belfast. It revives the historic McConnell's Irish Whisky brand, offering tours and tastings.
Crumlin Road Gaol (A Wing)
A historic prison in North Belfast, where McConnell's Distillery is located. Its A Wing has been transformed into the distillery, blending history with the art of whisky making.
Distillery Shop
A shop within McConnell's Distillery where visitors can purchase gifts and McConnell's Irish Whisky products.
Distillery Café
An all-day café located within McConnell's Distillery, offering visitors a place to relax and enjoy refreshments.
Distillery Bar
A fully licensed bar within McConnell's Distillery, providing a space for visitors to enjoy drinks after the tour and tastings.
Know Before You Go
This experience includes alcoholic beverages for tasting. Please note that the guide is not licensed or certified. Tips and gratuities are not included in the experience price.
Hot Tip
Visitors suggest arriving early to browse the gift shop and enjoy a drink at the bar before or after the tour. The 'new make' whiskey has a strong flavor, so be prepared for a potent taste!
Review Summary
People usually say the McConnell's Distillery Experience is an exceptional, highly informative tour set in a beautifully restored historic building that was formerly a prison. Visitors frequently praise the knowledgeable and personable tour guides, the immersive distillery facility with impressive copper stills, and the high-quality whisky tastings, with many calling it the best distillery tour they've experienced. Common highlights include the unique architectural features that blend prison heritage with modern distillery design, the award-winning whiskeys sampled, and the vibrant on-site bar atmosphere. Minor considerations include that the guide may not be formally certified in whiskey education and tips/gratuities are not included in the tour price.
Frequently Asked Questions
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