13/08/2026
Recap: An Unforgettable Evening with Clonakilty Distillery at Fareham Wine Cellar
A great night! We had the absolute pleasure of hosting Paddy from Clonakilty Distillery for our long-anticipated tasting event, and it’s fair to say a fantastic time was had by all who joined us at Lysses House Hotel on the same night as the solar eclipse, 12th August 2026.
Paddy was a perfect host for the night. His warmth, engaging storytelling and infectious enthusiasm made the evening flow seamlessly. Guiding us through the windswept heritage of Clonakilty’s Atlantic coast distillery, Paddy gave us a fascinating look into the meticulous craftsmanship, wood policy, and unique maritime ageing that set these Irish spirits apart.
Whilst the Irish Whiskies were the main attraction, we kicked off proceedings with a gin and tonic made with Clonakilty’s Minke Gin with a garnish of lime and mint. Crafted using local rock samphire harvested from the cliffs near the distillery, the gin was exceptionally well received across the room. Its crisp, bright botanical character and velvety mouthfeel made it a huge hit, proving that Clonakilty’s expertise extends well beyond the cask.
When we turned our attention to the whiskey flight, the quality across the board was remarkable. However, two expressions clearly captured the imagination, and palate, of the room, becoming the undisputed best-sellers of the evening. The Clonakilty Double Oak proved a crowd favourite with its luxurious vanilla sweetness, gentle spice, and smooth finish. Equal praise was showered on the Clonakilty Port Cask Finish, which delighted attendees with its rich dried fruit, delicate berry undertones, and velvety texture. I would add that the Galley Head Whiskies are all too easy to drink, I particularly liked the Rhum Cask.
A huge thank you to Paddy for delivering such a generous, informative, and entertaining masterclass, and to everyone who joined us to make the evening so special.
