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Ciaran Connolly
Ciaran Connolly
Hinch Distillery in Ballynahinch is one of eight distilleries in Northern Ireland that produce amazing spirits that continue the long tradition of distilling in the country. Read on to find out what you can see when you visit, the fantastic spirits they make at Hinch Distillery and more about this great local producer.
Want to try Hinch spirits in Belfast? Check out the bars offering cocktails and perfect serves highlighting these great spirits.
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Northern Ireland Distilleries
Distilling was one of the five main trades on which Northern Ireland based its economy, including distilling, brewing, linen manufacture, basket weaving, and lace crochet. Distilleries like the Old Bushmills Distillery have shaped the country’s culture, and you can even see a picture of Bushmills on some of the money in Northern Ireland.
Due to its importance in Northern Irish history, the distilling practice is still strong. It has grown as more people look to small local producers for everything from craft beer to local gin. The distillery is no different, creating Northern Irish gin and whiskey, bringing together history and tradition with modern methods and new flavours. Hinch Distillery is a great place to learn more about Northern Ireland’s distilling history and how they are making themselves a part of it.
This article will guide you in visiting the distillery and answer some burning questions about Hinch Distillery.
What Whiskey Does Hinch Distillery Offer?
- Small Batch (Bourbon Cask)
- 5 Year Old (Double Wood Cask)
- 10-Year-Old (Sherry Cask Finish)
- Peated Single Malt
- Single Pot Still
- 18 Year Old Single Malt (Chateaux La Ligne Finish)
- Craft & Casks Irish Whiskey (Imperial Stout Finish)
- Craft & Casks Irish Whiskey (Irish Red Rye Finish)
- Craft & Casks Irish Whiskey (Rye Export Stout Finish)
Learn more about the distillery’s methods of making whiskey in the video below:
They even have a recipe section on their website advising you on how to get the most out of their whiskeys. If you don’t, simply have them on the rocks instead.
What Gin Does Hinch Distillery Offer?
Hinch Distillery more recently produced its first gin called Ninth Wave. Ninth Wave is inspired by Irish mythology and the beautiful Celtic symbols that adorn monuments across the country, which are featured on its fantastic bottle. Ninth Wave has notes of many botanicals, which include:
- Orris Root
- Cassia Bark
- Cardamom
- Lemon Peel
- Lemon Verbena
- Grains of Paradise
Their gin is distilled to maximize the use of these ingredients, ensuring its deliciousness. You can learn all about these processes on their gin tours and experiences.
Where is Hinch Distillery?
Location: 19 Carryduff Rd, Ballynahinch BT27 6TZ
How to get to Hinch Distillery?
Hinch Distillery is well-connected to local roads and can be reached by bus or car. A Belfast Europa Bus Station coach will be there if you want to drink while visiting.
What Tours Are Available at Hinch Distillery?
The Hinch Distillery offers Gin and Whiskey tours of the distillery, allowing for an experience that suits anyone.
The Classic Whiskey Tour includes Tasting 2 flagship whiskeys, Small Batch & 5-year-old Double Wood.
The Premium Whiskey Tour includes tasting four flagship whiskeys: Small Batch, 5-year-old Double Wood, 10-year-old Sherry Finish, and Peated Single Malt.
The gin experience at Hinch involves learning about the distilling process and combining botanical ingredients. You can also create your gin to take home using those botanical blends you know about on the tour.
Book your experience at Hinch Distillery here.
When is Hinch Distillery Open to Visitors?
Opening Hours:
| Monday | 10 am–7 pm |
| Tuesday | 10 am–8 pm |
| Wednesday | 10 am–5:30 pm |
| Thursday | 10 am–8 pm |
| Friday | 11am–6 pm |
| Saturday | 10 am–8 pm |
| Sunday | 11 am–6 pm |
The Local Connection: Celebrating Northern Irish Heritage
Hinch Distillery is deeply rooted in the local community and is proud to celebrate Northern Irish heritage. From the distillery’s name to the locally sourced ingredients used in the production process, every aspect of Hinch Distillery reflects its connection to the land and people of County Down.
The distillery also supports local events and initiatives, from sponsoring community projects to hosting charity fundraisers. This commitment to the local community is a vital part of Hinch Distillery’s ethos, and it’s one of the reasons why the distillery has become such a beloved institution in Northern Ireland.
Hinch Distillery is also a popular stop on the Northern Ireland Whiskey Trail, which takes visitors on a journey through the region’s rich whiskey-making history. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor to Northern Ireland, a visit to Hinch Distillery is a great way to experience the best of the country’s whiskey culture.
Why You Should Visit Hinch Distillery
With its stunning location, world-class spirits, and warm hospitality, Hinch Distillery is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in whiskey, gin, or Northern Irish culture. Whether you’re a seasoned whiskey drinker or new to the world of spirits, the distillery offers a unique and memorable experience that will leave you wanting to return again and again.
Here are just a few reasons why you should add Hinch Distillery to your travel itinerary:
- Award-Winning Spirits: Hinch Distillery has quickly established itself as a producer of top-quality whiskey and gin, with various awards and accolades. Whether you’re a fan of bourbon cask-matured whiskey, sherry cask-aged whiskey, or artisanal gin, you’ll find something to love at Hinch.
- Educational Tours: The distillery’s guided tours offer a fascinating insight into the production process. Knowledgeable guides are passionate about sharing their expertise, and the tours are informative and enjoyable, whether you’re interested in the technical aspects of distillation or the history of Northern Irish whiskey.
- Beautiful Location: Hinch Distillery offers stunning views and a tranquil setting in the picturesque County Down countryside. It’s the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy a relaxing day out.
- Local Connection: Hinch Distillery is proud of its Northern Irish roots and celebrates the region’s heritage in everything it does. From the locally sourced ingredients to the community initiatives it supports, the distillery is a true ambassador for County Down.
- Unique Experiences: In addition to standard tours and tastings, Hinch Distillery offers a range of unique experiences, from masterclasses and private tastings to special events and workshops. Whether you want to deepen your knowledge of spirits or enjoy a memorable day out, there’s something for everyone at Hinch.
The Visitor Experience: Tours, Tastings, and More
One of the highlights of visiting Hinch Distillery is the opportunity to take a guided tour. The distillery offers a range of tour options, each designed to give visitors an in-depth look at the production process and the chance to sample some of the distillery’s finest offerings.
Distillery Tours
The standard distillery tour takes you through the entire whiskey-making process, from the malting of the barley to the maturation of the spirit in oak casks. Along the way, you’ll learn about the history of Hinch Distillery, the significance of its location, and the techniques used to craft its award-winning whiskeys.
The tour also includes visiting the distillery’s state-of-the-art production facilities to see the copper pot stills and better understand the distillation process. The knowledgeable and passionate tour guides are always on hand to answer any questions and share their insights into the world of whiskey and gin.
At the end of the tour, you’ll have the opportunity to sample some of Hinch Distillery’s finest spirits in the tasting room. Whether you’re a whiskey fan or new to the world of gin, the guided tastings are a great way to explore the different flavours and styles of the distillery.
Masterclasses and Private Tastings
Hinch Distillery offers masterclasses and private tastings for a more immersive experience. These sessions are led by the distillery’s expert team, who will guide you through a selection of whiskeys or gins, providing detailed tasting notes and insights into the production process.
The masterclasses are a fantastic opportunity to deepen your whiskey or gin knowledge and discover new flavours and styles. Whether you’re interested in learning more about the art of blending, the influence of different cask types, or the nuances of gin botanicals, there’s a masterclass to suit every interest.
Private tastings can be tailored to your preferences, making them ideal for special occasions or corporate events. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a team-building event, or simply looking for a unique experience with friends or family, a private tasting at Hinch Distillery is sure to impress.
The Visitor Centre and Café
In addition to the distillery tours and tastings, Hinch Distillery boasts a stylish visitor centre and café. With its modern design and welcoming ambience, the visitor centre is a great place to relax and soak up the atmosphere.
The café offers a range of delicious food and drink options, from light bites and sandwiches to hearty meals. The menu features locally sourced ingredients, ensuring you get an authentic taste of Northern Ireland. And, of course, no visit to the café would be complete without trying one of the distillery’s signature cocktails, expertly crafted using Hinch whiskey or Ninth Wave gin.
The visitor centre also has a well-stocked gift shop, where you can purchase bottles of Hinch whiskey and Ninth Wave gin and a selection of branded merchandise and locally made products. Whether you’re looking for a souvenir of your visit or a gift for a fellow spirits enthusiast, the gift shop has something for everyone.
Conclusion
Hinch Distillery is more than just a place to produce whiskey and gin; it’s a celebration of Northern Ireland’s rich heritage, a showcase of craftsmanship, and a destination for anyone who appreciates the finer things in life. With its award-winning spirits, educational tours, and warm hospitality, Hinch Distillery offers a unique experience that should not be missed.
So, the next time you find yourself in County Down, visit Hinch Distillery. Whether you’re there to sample the whiskey, learn about the distillation process, or simply soak up the atmosphere, you’ll have an unforgettable experience. Cheers!
If you want to try out Hinch Distilleries’ fabulous gins, why not visit some of the Belfast bars that create cocktails and perfect serves, ideal for gin lovers?
