The History of Smithwick’s Ireland’s Most Popular Red Ale

The Final Draft > Smithwick's Ale Through the Ages

Smithwick's Ale Through the Ages

Smithwick's Ale Through the Ages

Smithwick’s association with Kilkenny runs deep. Stretching back as far as the 13th century, the creation of Smithwick’s is a story of ingenuity, determination and resilience. On a tour of Smithwick’s Experience Kilkenny, you won’t just gain an understanding of the brewing process behind Ireland’s beloved red ale, you’ll be taken on a journey tracing paths through the county through the ages to discover the foundations of Smithwick’s.

To gain a full sense of the story of Smithwick’s and where it all began, take a step back in time to Kilkenny during the 1700s. A time of strict Penal Laws forbidding Catholics from owning land or running for local office. Into this scene arrives the orphan John Smithwick determined to defy the odds and begin trading. With the help of Richard Cole, Smithwick cleverly manages to lease a plot of land which would one day become synonymous with his name. But under the restrictive laws of the land, he was forced to operate in secret. His focus? Crafting a recipe that would speak where his name couldn’t. Soon, the whispers of the mysterious brewer behind the quality ale spread. Walking a delicate tightrope between secrecy and intrigue, John Smithwick managed to circumvent restrictions and etch his name into the hearts of the Kilkenny people, one brew at a time.

On your tour of Smithwick’s Experience Kilkenny, you’ll hear about the twists and turns of setting up a brewery. As your guide takes you through the tale, you’ll be able to see what it’s like to mill the malt, stir the mash and smell the hops, taking in every step of the brewing process within this former brewery.

The story continues into the 1800s when Edmond Smithwick (John Smithwick’s grandson) reclaimed the family business after it fell out of the Smithwick’s line and, for the first time. put the name proudly above the gates. A natural businessman, Edmond’s leadership saw the business go from strength to strength with trade and exports massively increasing from 5,000 barrels to 40,000 barrels in the space of just ten years. You’ll get a sense of this staggering accomplishment and more as you walk through the footsteps of his success.

But did you know John Smithwick was building on a brewing tradition that existed here long before he stepped a hopeful foot in Kilkenny? On our premium experience, you’ll gain a deeper insight into the brewing tradition that began in Kilkenny during the 13th century. The foundations of the Smithwick’s Brewery once belonged to the Abbey of St. Francis where monks worked on brewing quality ale for three hundred years. On the extensive Masters of Ale tour, you’ll discover how the Smithwick’s family helped shape the tradition of Irish ale before embarking on a special sensorial masterclass where you’ll be taught to isolate the senses and discern the raw ingredients across a variety of ale styles. Finally, you’ll get an expert-led tutorial on how to pour a pint of Smithwick’s to perfection. This comprehensive overview spanning from sacred origins to beloved international export, will give you a deep insight into how the Smithwick’s family became intertwined with the county and vice versa. Plus, you’ll come away with an engraved glass memento to remember this premium experience.

For more information on the legacy surrounding Smithwick’s and a chance to get hands-on instruction on pint pouring, take our tour and come away with an unrivalled knowledge of the brewing process and the city around you.




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