Micil Distillery is Galway’s first distillery to open its doors in over 100 years, and is headed up by Pádraic Ó Griallais, a 6th generation distiller. The distillery traces its roots back to 1848, when Pádraic’s great-great-great grandfather, Micil Mac Chearra, began producing poitín from a small stillhouse in Connemara. Six generations and 170 years later, they continue to make spirits with the same love and care that their forefathers have always done. They produce a range of Poitín products made from 100% Irish grain, and their award-winning Micil Irish Gin. They distil now the same way they’ve always done, by hand and in small batches, using local Connemara botanicals and unique family recipes.

In Micil’s words: “Sláinte Mhaith!” (To good health)

Distillery Tours & Tastings — Their visitor centre at Micil Distillery opened to the public in July 2018. They run tours and tastings most days, giving you a unique, up-close insight into the world of Micil, poitín and gin at their working distillery.

During a tour of Micil Distillery you’ll learn the real history of whiskey, poitín and gin, how they’re made, and what makes their own products so unique. You’ll hear some family history, from the original founder Micil Mac Chearra in 1848 through to his great-great-great grandson, Pádraic, the current head distiller. You’ll experience the sights, sounds, smells and tastes of a working distillery, and hear some interesting, funny and daring stories. You’ll get to taste for yourself the products they continue to make in a time-honoured tradition, spirits steeped in heritage, yet of their time. Their tours/tastings are a unique experience not to be missed.