Ireland’s first carbon-neutral distillery is to be built to process organic whiskey in Co Waterford.

Curraghmore Whiskey, which is currently producing whiskey off site, has been granted planning permission for a carbon-neutral distillery on the grounds of Curraghmore Estate in Portlaw, Co Waterford.

The barley for the whiskey will be grown on the estate by a local farmer and will be used to produce single-estate pot still and single malt whiskey on site.

Oats from the farm will also be used in the production process. Irish-made pot stills will be fitted in the distillery.

Visitor centre

Construction will begin in 2023 and there is capacity to produce 250,000l per year. A visitor centre on site will be able to welcome 10,000 visitors per annum.

The distillery will be built in 180-year-old farm buildings. According to the company, it is believed to be the first industrial farmyard to be built by famous architect William Tinsley.

The aim is to have a carbon-neutral distillery within 10 years. This will be achieved by a number of methods, among them is using an existing water wheel to generate hydroelectricity and by using ground-mounted solar panels.

Wetlands treatment system

There will also be an integrated constructed wetlands treatment system and production water well on the site.

Speaking after planning permission was granted, founder of Curraghmore Whiskey Richard De La Poer Beresford said: "We are excited to announce planning permission has been granted for Ireland's first super premium organic, carbon neutral distillery at Curraghmore and we look forward to this new chapter in our business.

“Our vision has always been to create a sustainable, organic, carbon-neutral pot still whiskey and with this distillery on the horizon, it looks like it will come to fruition.

"Curraghmore Whiskey is at the sweet spot where organic farming meets environmentally responsible distilling - we're offering the market a whiskey that not only has a provenance and authenticity that is unmatched, but also one that is sustainable and gives back to the land - a win-win for everyone.

"Our aim is to create a lasting legacy at Curraghmore that will grow and prosper for generations to come."