Water of Life: A Journey of Irish Whiskey

Ballycotton cliff walking ⋅ Jameson distillery visit ⋅ Pub dinner 

Our spirited journey begins in Cork, the self-proclaimed culinary capital of Ireland, and our jumping off point for a delicious journey of discovery. Together with new friends and the local Tastemaker who will bring this extraordinary trip to life, we’ll hit the road and then hit the trail for a thrilling cliff walk along the deep blue Irish Sea at Ballycotton. This rugged trail, lined by meadows on one side and white-tipped waves on the other, is the perfect introduction to the dramatic landscapes and lush, rolling countryside of County Cork. The Irish know that a brisk walk sets the taste buds alight, and lunch today will be a tasty one as we tuck into the best of seasonal bites at a quaint farm café. Later, we’ll head to the Jameson Distillery Midleton for an exclusive visit to the  newly-reopened microdistillery and cooperage as well as a behind the scenes visit to the Distiller’s Cottage for a tasting of their world-renowned ‘water of life’.  

Late afternoon we’ll arrive in the colorful seaside hamlet of Kinsale for some time to enjoy the laid-back vibe of this casual charmer before a boisterous pub dinner at our favorite local.

Harborside walk ⋅ Day for fun ⋅ Group sundowners 

Located along the Wild Atlantic Way, Kinsale is a vibrant coastal town famous for its colorful streetscapes and rich history. Today, after a breakfast of rich Irish specialties, we’ll have the day to choose our own adventure, from a coastal walk towards Scilly and the heritage site of Charles Fort, to active pursuits such as stand up paddle boarding, or food experience such as mead tasting. Mead, or ‘honey wine’ is believed to be the world’s oldest alcoholic drink, dating back to 6000 BC. Using a blend of ancient recipes and modern techniques, Kate and Denis Dempsey have resurrected a love of Mead through the sustainably made, award winning meads created at their family run meadery. 

Early this evening the group will come together for a round of sundowners before an evening that is what you make of it. Whether you want a featherlight fish and chips or a heartwarming stew, the ‘Gourmet Capital of Ireland’ at Kinsale has pubs, restaurants, tea shops to suit all appetites.

Cheese farm visit ⋅ Artisanal salmon smoking ⋅ Country estate dinner  

This morning, after a tasty breakfast to power our explorations, we’ll hit the road for new pastures and a day of foodie fun. Our first stop is a place where the Gulf Stream touches the Atlantic, and a farm where a cheesemaking family has been practicing their passion in this unique microclimate for six generations. After a sample of something truly unique on Earth, we’ll head into nearby Skibbereen for a taste of the precious wild smoked salmon that artisan Sally Barnes has been creating the old fashioned way for forty years. 

With brains and bellies brimming, we’ll head to our historical home for the night. Liss Ard Estate sits on 163 acres of pristine nature and has a fun and friendly atmosphere that is rich in Irish hospitality. This evening, we’ll enjoy a superlative dinner inspired by the seasons before a round of Irish whiskey in the lounge to cap off a perfect day.

Maritime whiskey tasting ⋅ Explore Cork ⋅ Smokehouse dinner  

After a brisk morning walk and hearty breakfast we’ll head east to Rosscarbery, a historic town overlooking the rugged West Cork coastline, for a harbor stroll. From there it’s on to the family-owned Clonakilty distillery for a maritime tasting of their whiskeys overlooking the pristine Atlantic coast. With a kick in our step we’ll head into vibrant Cork for free time to enjoy the best of Ireland’s “rebel city”.  From bustling food and flea markets to architectural sights, art galleries, and artisan shopping as far as the eye can see, there is something for everyone. 

This evening, after a round of whiskey cocktails expertly blended by a mixologist friend, we’ll head to dinner at a smokehouse eatery that expertly pairs good times with great spirits. Together, we’ll raise a glass to new friends and the warm and welcoming Irish hospitality. Later, we’ll hit Cask for a round of after dinners and see what the night brings. 

This morning after a leisurely breakfast it will be time to say goodbye for now.