2019 has started with a bang at the World Gin Awards for Kilkenny’s Ballykeefe Distillery.
Only a ten minute drive from where I live in Kilkenny, Ballykeefe Distillery have been making waves since opening their doors.
This year (2019) is only the company’s second year in existence.
They’ve already got a gong for Best Irish Vodka 2018. The Ballykeefe Extra Dry Gin took a bronz at last year’s San Francisco World Spirits. So it seems fitting, with progress, that they’re on top of the world to begin 2019.
The family-run operation has been recognised for their sustainability too.
According to founder Morgan Ging in the Sindo recently, Ballykeefe is the only place where the farmer grows the grain, distills it and feeds the by-produce to his animals.
So there’s a lot going on at the farm on the outskirts of Kilkenny city.
Their first year of operation alone yielded eleven national and international awards.
Absolutely thrilled
“We are absolutely thrilled to win gold for our Ballykeefe Extra Dry Irish Gin at the 2019 World Gin Awards”, says Ging via Food and Wine Magazine.
“It is an honour to be recognised at such a prestigious awards ceremony, and particularly as we were competing with some of the best producers in the world.”
“Last year was a stellar year for us, we picked up a number of awards both at home and internationally and we’re delighted to get this year off to such a great start by bringing home this much sought-after accolade.”
How is the Ballykeefe gin made? Vapour infusion, of course.
If you’re curious about the distillery or tours, check ballykeefedistillery.ie.
There may be something in the water in Cork, but with the likes of Ballykeefe and Highbank, there’s gold in the spirits in Kilkenny.
Oh, and if you want the perfect serve? Fill a glass with plenty of ice, add a thin slice of lime and ginger, give a good stir and top to taste with a quality classic tonic water.
