Imagine Dublin in 1780 a bustling city ripe with opportunity. It was second only to London in size within Britain and Ireland. Over one hundred breweries and distilleries thrived here. Now, we are standing in front of what was once the beating heart of Jameson Irish Whiskey: the Old Jameson Distillery.
The original distillery was established here on Bow Street in 1780. Initially, it was simply called the Bow Street Distillery. John Jameson, a Scotsman, arrived in Dublin and recognized the potential. By 1805, he took full ownership and expanded the distillery. By 1810, it was officially renamed John Jameson and Son’s Bow Street Distillery.
By the 1880s, the Old Jameson Distillery had grown to an impressive size. It covered almost six acres in Dublin’s city center. People called it a “city within a city”. The distillery was a self-sufficient complex. It housed a smithy, cooperage, sawmills, and workshops for engineers, carpenters, painters, and coppersmiths.
Two deep wells provided water for the whiskey-making process. Cellars extended beneath the streets to store maturing whiskey. Four stills and two wash stills were in operation. Each could hold 24000 gallons heated by fire and steam.
The Jameson family were keen innovators and experimented with their processes. Between 1785 and 1825, distillers paid duty on malt and spirits. John Jameson started experimenting with mash bills of malted and unmalted barley. The public loved this new style of whiskey. Soon it was hard to sell malt Scotch whisky in Dublin.
Several generations of Jamesons ran the distillery. Each John Jameson left his mark on the business. They were prominent members of Dublin society. Some held positions such as Justice of the Peace and High Sheriff.
The distillery provided employment for hundreds of workers. Many jobs were passed down through families. Once hired, employees often had a job for life. The exterior walls radiated heat. Locals down on their luck would come here to find warmth.
The Old Jameson Distillery faced challenges in the 20th century. American Prohibition, trade wars, and the rise of Scotch blended whiskey created difficult times. In 1966, Jameson joined forces with rivals to form the Irish Distillers Group. By 1971, it became one of the last Dublin distilleries to close. Production moved to the New Midleton Distillery in Cork.
But the story doesn’t end there. The Old Jameson Distillery reopened as a visitor center in 1997. The distillery received further upgrades following a major renovation in 2007. It stands as a testament to Dublin’s rich industrial heritage. Today, the Old Jameson Distillery welcomes visitors from around the world. They come to learn about the history of Jameson Irish Whiskey and experience its unique character. Every visitor is rewarded with a Jameson Whiskey signature drink. Lucky volunteers can even participate in a tutored whiskey comparison and earn a coveted certificate.
Remember the spirit of John Jameson, who urged us to “Live a bit more and fear a bit less!” As we conclude our tour, let’s raise a glass to the legacy of the Old Jameson Distillery. May its story continue to inspire and delight for generations to come.