Perched upon the historic hills of County Cork, Killahora Orchards produces some of Ireland’s most distinguished artisanal beverages. This family-run estate dates back to 1750, yet it leads the modern craft revolution with innovative techniques.

Founded by two cousins, Barry Walsh and Dave Watson, with the goal of growing the best rare apple and pear varieties on Irish soil and to use artisanal techniques to turn them into award winning drinks. The orchard team cultivates over 148 varieties of apples and 48 varieties of pears. This immense biodiversity allows them to craft complex, layered flavours that defy standard industry expectations. By focusing on rare heritage fruit, the estate preserves Irish agricultural history while creating world-class drinks.

Masterful Craftsmanship and Rare Vintages

The production process at Killahora Orchards emphasizes patience and precision. The team hand-harvests the fruit at the peak of ripeness to ensure maximum sugar content and aromatic intensity. They specialise in the creation of Rare Apple Ice Wine, a luxurious elixir made by freezing the juice of selected apples. This process concentrates the natural sugars and acids, resulting in a dessert wine of remarkable balance. Additionally, the estate produces fine perry, traditional cider, and an acclaimed Apple Port. Every bottle reflects the unique terroir of the Cork coastline.

A Sustainable Vision for the Future

Environmental stewardship is at the heart of the orchard’s philosophy. They practice traditional farming methods to protect the local ecosystem such as maintaining old stone walls and wild hedgerows to provide habitats for beneficial insects and birds. This natural approach reduces the need for intervention and fosters a healthy, self-sustaining orchard. The team views themselves as guardians of the land. They ensure that the soil remains fertile and the trees remain productive for generations to come.

Experience the Orchard Excellence

Killahora Orchards invites enthusiasts to explore the nuances of premium Irish fruit spirits. Their products frequently win international awards, securing their place on the menus of Michelin-starred restaurants. Customers can visit the online shop to bring a piece of the Cork countryside into their homes. Whether paired with fine cheeses or enjoyed as a standalone treat, these beverages offer a true taste of Irish excellence.

Killahora Orchards have used EAN-13 barcodes since 2019.