Category: Blog

As the holiday season approaches, we at Pearse Lyons Distillery are excited to share the spirit of Christmas with you. It’s the perfect time to celebrate the year’s successes, show appreciation to your dedicated team, and treat loved ones to something truly special.

This year, we’ve curated a selection of speciality Christmas hampers and Irish Christmas gifts that are guaranteed to spread festive cheer. Whether you’re gifting colleagues, clients, friends or family, our luxury whiskey and gin gift sets offer a unique and thoughtful way to say thank you.

Explore our Christmas Gift Guide, featuring Irish-made gifts, premium spirits, and beautifully packaged hampers perfect for whiskey lovers, gin fans, and anyone who enjoys high-quality Irish craft. All our Christmas hampers are available for worldwide shipping, so be sure to place your orders early to ensure delivery in time for Christmas.

Email us at info@pearselyonsdistillery.com or buy from our online shop.

Recognized for Sustainability Improvements That Drive Long-Term Innovation

Pearse Lyons Distillery has achieved Gold Membership in the Bord Bia Origin Green programme for the fourth consecutive year, in recognition of their continued commitment to sustainability. Gold is the highest and most prestigious standard in this programme. The Distillery’s consistent use of sustainable raw materials, improvement in the use of recycled/recyclable materials in product packaging, increased efficiencies in how raw materials are utilised, sustained waste reduction, increasing biodiversity initiatives and community engagement were the basis for achieving this highly coveted status.

Origin Green is Ireland’s pioneering food and drink sustainability programme, uniting the government, private sector and complete supply chain, from farmers to food producers, foodservice, beverage and retail. As the world’s only national food and drink sustainability programme, Origin Green enables the industry to set and achieve measurable sustainability targets that respect the environment and serve local communities more effectively.

“Origin Green Gold status is a highly prized award for us. We are honoured to attain it for the fourth consecutive year for our sustainability work to date and we will continue finding ways to positively impact our business and the world around” said Conor Ryan, head of production operations at Pearse Lyons Distillery.

Pearse Lyons Distillery has embedded sustainability across its operations.  From restoring a 12th-century church in the heart of Dublin’s Liberties that serves as a beacon to the history and heritage of the community around it, to using regenerative farming techniques to cultivate own grown grain just 25 kilometres from the distillery and the upcycling of bourbon barrels from its sister distillery in Kentucky. Sustainability is consistently embedded at the heart of its processes. Finding innovative ways to look at all components of the business to improve year-over-year on sustainable efforts also allows for a focus on long-term sustained growth as the distillery has its sights on generational longevity.

“Being a private and family-run company with deep roots in the brewing and distilling industry, longer term thinking is inherently part of who we are and how we make decisions,” said Dr. Mark Lyons, president and CEO of Alltech.

The Pearse Lyons Distillery remains committed to keeping sustainability at the heart of everything they do.

Celebrating Guaranteed Irish recognition and over 200,000 visitors from around the world.

DUBLIN, Ireland, July 25, 2025— Pearse Lyons Distillery, Dublin’s only independent family-owned distillery, proudly celebrates a milestone eight anniversary, having welcomed over 200,000 visitors from around the world. Marking this special occasion, the distillery has also been awarded the prestigious Guaranteed Irish symbol.

“Since opening its doors, Pearse Lyons Distillery has welcomed over 200,000 visitors from across the globe. Each one sharing in the passion and tradition that define our brand. This milestone is not only a celebration of our journey, but also a heartfelt thank you to the visitors, our team, and supporters who have made it all possible. As we raise a glass to eight incredible years, we look forward to continuing our legacy of excellence, innovation and sustainability” said Tracey Flinter, General Manager.  

Pearse Lyons Distillery is also proud to celebrate its recent accreditation as a Guaranteed Irish member, a distinction that recognises businesses committed to Irish provenance, community support, and sustainable practices. This recognition underscores the brand’s deep-rooted connection to local heritage and its ongoing dedication to responsible craft.

“Being awarded the Guaranteed Irish symbol not only affirms the distillery’s quality and authenticity, but also highlights the continuing contribution to Ireland’s economy, culture, and global reputation for excellence in spirits”, said Flinter.

The announcement also coincides with the Feast of St. James, celebrated annually on July 25^th in honour of St. James the Greater, the patron saint of pilgrims. Fittingly, Pearse Lyons Distillery, housed in the restored St. James Church, shares its founding anniversary with this historic feast day. This alignment creates a powerful trio of celebrations: the distillery’s 8th birthday, its recognition with the Guaranteed Irish symbol, and a moment of cultural reflection rooted in its iconic location.

Restoration, Community & Sustainability

In 2012, St. James Church was acquired with the vision of restoring it not just as a working distillery, but as a living part of the Dublin 8 community. A place where heritage will be preserved and celebrated for future generations. When the late Pearse Lyons and his wife Deirdre set out to restore the derelict site, they already knew of its personal significance. Pearse’s grandfather, John Hubert Lyons, had been born just around the corner on Echlin Street and in 1948 was laid to rest in the graveyard that surrounds the distillery grounds. This deep personal connection gave the project an even greater sense of purpose and place from the very beginning. The restoration took over four years to complete, carefully preserving the original structure while breathing new life into the building. Since opening its doors on July 25th, 2017, today celebrating its 8^th birthday, Pearse Lyons Distillery has proudly stood as both a historical landmark and a welcoming destination for locals and visitors alike.

Committed to supporting the community, the distillery has a policy to buy locally where possible and is proud to employ a passionate team creating local jobs. Pearse Lyons Distillery remains committed to creating a space that celebrates Dublin 8, a place of social, cultural and whiskey significance, not only as it was, but as it continues to grow for generations to come.

The distillery is committed to a sustainable grain-to-glass ethos. From 2020, every drop of whiskey distilled at the altar is crafted using sustainably grown grain from its own farm 25km from the distillery. Using an in-house cultivated yeast and matured in upcycled bourbon barrels from its sister distillery, Town Branch Distillery in Lexington, Kentucky, creating a unique spirit as iconic as the building it is distilled in.

This year, Pearse Lyons Distillery will be harvesting a historic cereal as part of a special project — one that brings back a farming technique that has not been used in Ireland for generations. It marks an exciting moment in the whiskey-making journey, combining tradition with innovation to create something truly distinctive.

To mark the celebration, Pearse Lyons Distillery is offering 15% off all products in its online store, along with free standard shipping across Ireland for the month of July. This limited-time offer is a heartfelt thank you to the loyal customers and supporters who have joined us on this journey. 

Image Assets: Pearse Lyons Distillery – Image Assets

About Pearse Lyons Distillery:

Pearse Lyons Distillery is Dublin’s only independently family-owned distillery, located in the former St. James Church in the heart of the iconic Liberties district. This award-winning boutique distillery produces Pearse Irish Whiskey and other spirits. Named after the late Dr. Pearse Lyons, a master brewer, whiskey innovator, and founder of global animal health leader. Renovations to the distillery started distillation in 2012 at its brewery before opening the distillery in 2017. Driven by passion and family tradition, Pearse and his wife Deirdre aimed to create a unique distillery. The Lyons family’s legacy, including five generations of Dublin-based coopers, is honoured here. The distillery’s renowned tours offer an immersive experience in Irish whiskey distillation and the culture of The Liberties. Having retained for the third year, Bord Bia’s Origin Green Gold Member status, the distillery continues to champion sustainability, storytelling, and crafting products with a purpose. For more information, visit www.pearselyonsdistillery.com

About Ha’Penny Spirits:

The Ha’Penny Spirits range was created by a team of craft enthusiasts from Pearse Lyons Distillery, inspired by the iconic Ha’Penny Bridge, a symbol of Dublin’s unique and charismatic spirit. Dublin is a city of character and characters, warm, witty, and welcoming in equal measure. This spirit has connected people through the years, just as the Ha’Penny Bridge has united the people of Dublin. Alongside its award-winning Irish whiskeys, the distillery boasts The Gin School at Pearse Lyons Distillery that allows students to develop, distill, bottle and purchase their own personal gin creation.

About Alltech:

Founded in 1980 by Irish entrepreneur and scientist Dr. Pearse Lyons and now led by his son Dr. Mark Lyons, Alltech is a global leader in agriculture, committed to providing smarter and more sustainable solutions. With over 40 years of scientific research backing its work, Alltech offers a diverse range of products and services designed to enhance the health and performance of plants and animals. This, in turn, leads to improved nutrition, reduced environmental impact, and advanced innovation in the field. Alltech’s portfolio includes specialty ingredients, premix supplements, feed, and biologicals, all underpinned by a strong scientific foundation and a commitment to adaptability. As a private, family-owned company, Alltech emphasizes quick responses to customer needs and fosters a unique, entrepreneurial culture. Headquartered near Lexington, Kentucky, Alltech operates in over 120 countries with five bioscience centers and more than 80 manufacturing facilities worldwide. Their mission, encapsulated in their purpose of “Working Together for a Planet of Plenty™,” focuses on providing nutrition for all, revitalizing local economies, and replenishing the planet’s natural resources. For more information, visit www.alltech.com, or join the conversation on Facebook and LinkedIn.

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This July, Pearse Lyons Distillery is proud to partner with The Liberties Festival to offer a unique tour experience that brings together local history, community spirit, and cultural celebration. As part of the festival’s rich programme, guests are invited to step inside the former St. James’s Church—home to our boutique distillery—and journey through centuries of Dublin’s heritage in the heart of The Liberties.

Your visit begins with one of our expert storytellers in St. James’s Graveyard, where stories of medieval pilgrims, local heroes, and generations of Dubliners come to life. From there, step inside the restored former St. James Church, a stunning architectural gem, where you’ll learn how this historic space was transformed into a fully operational distillery by Dr. Pearse Lyons. This immersive tour weaves together the past and present, revealing the character, creativity, and resilience that defines The Liberties.

This special tour offers a chance to connect with the community, history, and craftsmanship that make The Liberties so distinctive. We’re delighted to be part of The Liberties Festival 2025, one of Ireland’s oldest and most beloved community celebrations. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience Dublin’s history from a fresh perspective.

Tours are complimentary and must be booked in advance via our website.

Tour Information
Tour Duration: 45 minutes
Tour Dates and Times:
• Monday 21st July – 10:30am
• Tuesday 22nd July – 10:30am
• Wednesday 23rd July – 2:30pm
• Thursday 24th July – 10:30am
• Friday 25th July – 11:30am
• Saturday 26th July – 11:30am
• Sunday 27th July – 2:30pm

Please note: This tour does not include a whiskey tasting.

Media Contact:

Pearse Lyons Distillery – Dublin 8, Ireland

Attn: Grace O’Neill

E: goneill@pearselyonsdistillery.com

Pearse Lyons Distillery Expands into the UK Market and Beyond

Strengthening Global Exports and Brand Positioning Worldwide

DUBLIN, Ireland, June 17, 2025— Pearse Lyons Distillery, the family-owned Dublin-based distillery celebrated for its commitment to innovation, heritage, and sustainability, proudly announces a major expansion into the United Kingdom through a strategic partnership with JBE Imports. This move marks a pivotal moment in the brand’s global growth strategy while reinforcing its commitment to the European and U.S. markets.

The UK launch will officially debut at this year’s Bar Convent London (BCB London), taking place June 30–July 1, one of the leading international trade shows celebrating the best of the hospitality and drinks industry. The partnership with JBE Imports—founded in 2013 by a team with over 20 years of excellence in building premium brands and delivering memorable experiences—will ensure Pearse Lyons’ range of distinctive Irish spirits reaches new audiences with the care and passion they deserve.

“This is more than just market expansion,” said Conor Ryan, Head of Production Operations of Pearse Lyons Distillery. “It’s about finding partners who align with our values and vision, and JBE Imports is exactly that. We’re excited to bring the Pearse Lyons story to more people across the UK and beyond.”

Additional growth is planned for other emerging regions with an emphasis on storytelling and utilizing the distillery’s unique point of origin to create memories and experiences for its partners.  Pearse Lyons Distillery although young in years brings a significant part of Irelands history back into conversation in a meaningful way.

Global Growth, Innovation and Visitor Experiences on the Horizon

As part of its broader global vision, Pearse Lyons Distillery has expanded its export team to accelerate market development across Europe and other international regions. This dedicated team allows for a sharper focus on emerging opportunities while strengthening relationships in key export destinations.

The U.S. remains the largest market for Irish whiskey, accounting for roughly 40% of global exports. To support this critical region, Pearse Lyons is reinforcing its U.S. presence through its sister distillery, Town Branch Distillery in Lexington, Kentucky. By realigning assets toward long-term spirits development, the brand ensures consistent, dedicated support for U.S. partners and consumers. This strategy also positions Pearse Lyons to better navigate potential headwinds—such as looming tariffs—through a more integrated sales and marketing approach.

Looking ahead, the distillery is preparing for a wave of product innovation in 2025 and 2026 to support the planned expansions while exciting its existing and new partners. This innovation will be done by deepening its commitment to sustainability and agriculture to drive innovation which will include access to estate-grown grain expressions, upcycled barrel finishes and blends and its commitment to Bord Bia’s Origin Green programme which the distillery is currently a Gold Membership Recipient for ongoing sustainability initiatives for the past three years running.

Pearse Lyons Distillery is also investing in its on-site visitor experience, offering guests an even more immersive and hands-on journey through Irish spirits. Expanded offerings within its:

• Pearse Irish Whiskey Blending Experience, where guests can craft their own blend alongside the distillery’s expert team
• The Gin School at Pearse Lyons Distillery, a creative botanical distilling session for gin enthusiasts onsite
• The upcoming reopening of Pearse’s Place, the distillery’s exclusive speakeasy-style cocktail bar, offering an intimate space to enjoy its portfolio of spirits
• Linked to the Camino de Santiago, St. James Church which now houses Pearse Lyons Distillery, was believed to be the starting point in Dublin for this iconic pilgrimage which again welcome guests to start their own journey

Image Assets: Pearse Lyons Distillery – Image Assets

About Pearse Lyons Distillery:

Pearse Lyons Distillery is Dublin’s only independently family-owned distillery, located in the former St. James Church in the heart of the iconic Liberties district. This award-winning boutique distillery produces Pearse Irish Whiskey and other spirits. Named after the late Dr. Pearse Lyons, a master brewer, whiskey innovator, and founder of global animal health leader Alltech, the distillery started distillation in 2012 at its brewery before opening the distillery in 2017 after renovations to the church. Driven by passion and family tradition, Pearse and his wife Deirdre aimed to create a unique distillery. The Lyons family’s legacy, including five generations of Dublin-based coopers, is honored here. The distillery’s renowned tours offers an immersive experience in Irish whiskey distillation and the culture of The Liberties. For more information, visit www.pearselyonsdistillery.com

About Ha’Penny Spirits:

The Ha’Penny Spirits range was created by a team of craft enthusiasts from Pearse Lyons Distillery, inspired by the iconic Ha’Penny Bridge, a symbol of Dublin’s unique and charismatic spirit. Dublin is a city of character and characters, warm, witty, and welcoming in equal measure. This spirit has connected people through the years, just as the Ha’Penny Bridge has united the people of Dublin. Alongside it’s award-winning Irish whiskeys, the distillery boasts The Gin School at Pearse Lyons Distillery that allows students to develop, distill, bottle and purchase their own personal gin creation. For more information, visit www.hapennyspirits.com

About Alltech:

Founded in 1980 by Irish entrepreneur and scientist Dr. Pearse Lyons and now led by his son Dr. Mark Lyons, Alltech is a global leader in agriculture, committed to providing smarter and more sustainable solutions. With over 40 years of scientific research backing its work, Alltech offers a diverse range of products and services designed to enhance the health and performance of plants and animals. This, in turn, leads to improved nutrition, reduced environmental impact, and advanced innovation in the field. Alltech’s portfolio includes specialty ingredients, premix supplements, feed, and biologicals, all underpinned by a strong scientific foundation and a commitment to adaptability. As a private, family-owned company, Alltech emphasizes quick responses to customer needs and fosters a unique, entrepreneurial culture. Headquartered near Lexington, Kentucky, Alltech operates in over 120 countries with five bioscience centers and more than 80 manufacturing facilities worldwide. Their mission, encapsulated in their purpose of “Working Together for a Planet of Plenty™,” focuses on providing nutrition for all, revitalizing local economies, and replenishing the planet’s natural resources. For more information, visit www.alltech.com, or join the conversation on Facebook and LinkedIn.

Whiskey Live Dublin is always a highlight on our calendar, and this year was no exception. As a proud and consistent participant in Ireland’s largest whiskey event, we were delighted to return to the RDS to showcase the passion, craft, and innovation that define our distillery. Over the course of the weekend, we had the pleasure of sharing our full range of Pearse Lyons Distillery expressions — as well as a few exciting behind-the-scenes samples we’re working on — with whiskey lovers from across Ireland and beyond.

Our stand was buzzing with energy throughout the weekend, and it was a joy to engage with so many curious and knowledgeable guests. From first-time tasters to seasoned enthusiasts, we loved the opportunity to share our story, answer questions, and hear firsthand what people are enjoying in Irish whiskey today. Events like this are a reminder of the vibrant and growing community that surrounds the industry, and how important it is to keep innovating while staying true to our roots.

It was also a chance to reconnect with friends and peers across the sector and to witness the remarkable progress being made throughout Irish whiskey. Our team — Conor (Head of Production), James (Brand Ambassador), Kaitlyn (Brand Home Manager), Grace (Marketing Manager), and Liam (Distillery Storyteller) — had a fantastic time representing the distillery and soaking up the spirit of the event. We’re already looking forward to next year’s Whiskey Live, and raising a glass once again to the people, stories, and passion behind every bottle. Sláinte!