Who makes it?
From Humble Beginnings to a Distilling Legacy
The Copeland Distillery's journey began with a leap of faith in the summer of 2016. What started with a successful crowdfunding campaign, raising £30,000 from over 370 Founders, has grown into a beacon of innovation in the world of craft spirits. These early supporters, who took a chance on the brand's vision, were instrumental in bringing Copeland's first products to life.
After nine months of dedicated construction, the Copeland Distillery opened its doors in August 2019, breathing new life into a historic site in Donaghadee, County Down. The 6,500 square-foot space, once a cinema and bottling company, now stands as a testament to the distillery's commitment to the area's rich maritime and distilling heritage. The 125-year lease on the property underscores their ambition to share this history with both local and international visitors.
The Heart of the Distillery
Within the distillery walls, you'll find three copper stills—Betty, Hessie, and Pam—named in honor of the founder's grandmothers and mother. These stills are the heart of the operation, producing an award-winning range of spirits, including Traditional Irish and Navy Strength gins, along with a soon-to-be-released line of malt and pot-still whiskeys that are currently maturing.
The Copeland Distillery takes pride in its meticulous approach, carefully selecting wild and fair-trade botanicals and locally sourced fruits from the farms of County Down. Their mission is simple yet profound: to create exceptional, great-tasting spirits that surprise and delight, all while reflecting the history and traditions of the local area.
Beyond the bottles, the distillery offers a unique experience. Visitors can embark on a distillery tour to learn more about the production process, and even relax in the onsite coffee shop.
The story of Copeland Distillery is one of community, commitment, and a passion for crafting spirits that are both innovative and deeply rooted in tradition.
How is it made?
Introducing 25.2 Single Cask Single Malt Irish Whiskey – Distillery Exclusive.
Double Distilled | Pedro Ximénez (PX) Sherry Cask | 57.3% ABV | Limited to 340 Bottles
Introducing 25.2, a bold and characterful expression of Copeland Distillery craftsmanship. This distillery exclusive release is a Single Cask, Double Distilled, Single Malt, made from 100% malted barley and matured for over 5 years and 4 months in a single 250L Pedro Ximénez (PX) Sherry Hogshead.
The result? A deep, molasses-coloured whiskey that speaks to the soul of the cask it matured in.
What does it taste like?
How It Smells
Rich, heavy, and herbaceous – notes of bold balsamic vinegar, apricot, orange marmalade, and Connecticut cigar, with a drizzle of treacle over fresh banana.
How It Tastes
Warm and leathery with immediate impact. Flavours of Christmas pudding, cinnamon, nutty gingerbread, dry tobacco, big sherry spice, and chewy toffee.
The Finish
Long and lingering with sherry-soaked dark fruits, black pepper, and a subtle touch of brown sugar.
