Long a haven for biodiversity and historical preservation, Lambay Island is currently a private wildlife sanctuary and home to a rare ecosystem of grey seals, wallabies, seabirds, and a medieval castle.
The island has been owned by the Baring family since 1904, who in more recent times have partnered with Cognac producer House of Camus to create Lambay Whiskey, a unique fusion of Irish whiskey with a cognac cask finish.
Now the latest chapter in the story sees the opening of an offshore, off-grid island micro-distillery, where the pioneering whiskey partners plan to produce high-quality single malt whiskey.
According to Alex Baring, Custodian of Lambay Island and the Revelstoke Trust, the fundamental objective of the new venture is to set a new path for sustainable whiskey production while contributing to the preservation of the environment and the heritage that surrounds it.
Built as a circular, closed-loop system, the distillery reuses resources and minimises waste. As the island has no mains power, the distillery will be powered initially by HVO, a clean-burning diesel alternative, and is working to eventually transition to full energy independence using solar, wind and wave power.
Any excess heat generated through production will heat the nearby 15th century castle, while organic Irish grain will be used in the whiskey-making process, with by-products recycled into feed for island animals.
Baring says, “Breathing new life into unused buildings and committing to a closed-loop, regenerative system allows us to protect Lambay in a meaningful and enduring way. This is not just a distillery; it is a declaration of intent, for our family, for the island, and for the generations who will follow us.”
Words: Martina Murray
