Ballykeefe Distillery released its first whiskey onto the market this week. The pot still Irish whiskey is produced from grain grown on the Ging family farm in Co Kilkenny and distilled in the on-farm distillery.

In a truly sustainable approach, the cattle on the Ging’s farm are fed on the byproducts from the whiskey’s production and allow another unique product to be sold – whiskey steaks.

Ballykeefe Distillery in Co Kilkenny has just released its first whiskey.

Just over 1,000 bottles have been released onto the market from the fully integrated eco-friendly distillery. The distillery has been producing white spirits since 2017, but had to wait over three years to release its whiskey to the market.

Our operations are centred around our unique, high-quality product, which is produced using leading technology

Morgan Ging, who owns and runs the distillery with his wife Anne, stated: “The launch of the Ballykeefe whiskey is the culmination of over 25 years work for our family.

“In 2016, we took the decision to adapt our traditional farming business and revive the longstanding tradition of small family farm distilleries in Ireland.

“Our operations are centred around our unique, high-quality product, which is produced using leading technology to ensure eco-friendly practices and zero off-farm waste.”

Morgan Ging pictured filling the first cask of whiskey at Ballykeefe Distillery.

The whiskey has been described as a collector’s dream. The bottles were hand-engraved by Kilkenny Crystal and mounted in a presentation box with a certificate of authenticity.

Using local businesses is another step in the businesses sustainability journey, which it has numerous awards for, as the distillery's bottles and glasses are produced by Kilkenny Crystal and the first release will be on sale in the Wine Centre in Kilkenny.

The distillery and farm operations are also members of Bord Bia’s Origin Green programme.