A new £22 million Irish whiskey distillery at Belfast’s Crumlin Road Gaol has opened to the public.
Belfast Lord Mayor Ryan Murphy was the first official visitor to the McConnell’s Distillery and Visitor Experience after it opened its doors on Wednesday.
The multimillion pound tourism project has transformed the A-wing at the historic gaol site into a brand new working distillery, which will produce spirits for the Belfast Distillery Company.
Part of New York-based Conecuh Brands, the company has revived the 150-year-old McConnell’s Irish Whisky label.
It expects the distillery will attract around 100,000 visitors to the north Belfast site each year, with more than 50 full-time jobs created.
After years of planning, building and fitting out, Belfast Distillery Company chief executive John Kelly said the company was thrilled to be finally welcoming visitors.
“We are very confident that all of our guests, locals and tourists alike, will have a truly world-class experience when they come through our doors.”
Councillor Ryan Murphy described the McConnell’s Distillery as a major asset for north Belfast.
“It’s another example of how our city’s tourism offering is growing and expanding in response to continued demand from visitors.
“Well done to the team at Belfast Distillery Company for taking on, and opening up, this impressive venture.
“They have used their skills and creativity to create a home-grown product, which will not only create jobs at their facility, but also act as a catalyst in opening up new opportunities for the wider community, by encouraging more visitors to explore beyond our city centre.”
The up-close and personal visitor experience is led by a new team of expert guides, who will share the secrets of McConnell’s history and more recent successes.
The tour, which costs £25 for an adult ticket, includes a welcome drink, McConnell’s 5 Year, McConnell’s Sherry Cask and some ‘new make’ liquid, straight off the stills.