The Jameson distillery was established in Dublin in 1780 when Scottish born John Jameson discovered the recipe for the distinctive flavour we know and love today. Choosing only the finest ingredients, Jameson personally selected the barley and casks he used, and moved away from the Scottish tradition of distilling whisky twice, adding a third distillation into the process.
Jameson also believed that his workers contributed to the success of his product and so he offered the best wages and working conditions in the city. As well as sharing his profits and time, Jameson conjured nicknames for many of his workers, based on observations he made as they worked.
Jameson passed his knowledge and business onto his son, who in turn passed it on to his son. In the early 1900s the distillery was in the hands of John Jameson IV, and its whisky was known and loved across the globe.
Although the whisky is now distilled in Cork, the brand’s rich history is preserved in the Old Jameson Distillery in Dublin. Visitors can experience guided tours and audio visual presentations, learning all there is to know about the building, the man, and of course, the whisky.
Throughout the tour volunteers are required to test and compare the different whiskeys on offer, earning themselves an Irish Whisky Taster Certificate. Adult entry tickets include a choice of complimentary signature Jameson drink in the Jameson Discovery Bar. To extend your visit, why not enjoy the craic in either the Reserve bar or JJ’s Bar, or enjoy a meal at the 3rd Still Restaurant on the distillery’s mezzanine floor.
Tours are every twenty minutes and last approximately an hour. The distillery is open daily from 9 a.m. (10 a.m. on Sundays) except for Good Friday and 24th - 26th December. It is easily accessible by foot, by bus or by heading to the 'Smithfield' stop of the LUAS tram system.
