Whiskey festival to make its return to Cork city venues 

The annual Cork Whiskey Festival is returning this spring to take over bars and venues in the city centre.

The festival, now in its third year, will take place from March 21 to 23 across venues along MacCurtain St, where over the three days attendees can enjoy expert-led tastings featuring rare and premium whiskeys and limited-edition releases, behind-the-scenes tours, and special events.

Highlights include the Brand Expo & Socials at The Metropole, which will host 50 whiskey distilleries and brands over the two evenings of March 21 and 22 from 7pm to 11pm.

At this special event they will offer complimentary samples of their finest creations alongside mixers and food bites.

This year, distilleries will also showcase their gins, rums, vodkas and poitíns, with many served by the distillers, blenders, and brand owners themselves, giving tasters a rare chance to engage with the makers behind the magic.

With more than 20 events on the lineup, other highlights include a Bushmills aged cocktail masterclass on March 22 from 4pm at Gallagher’s Gastro Pub; a vintage Irish bottle tasting on March 23 from 2pm at The Shelbourne Bar; and a Redbreast cask masterclass on March 23, from 6.30pm, at The Dean Hotel, serving as the festival’s grand finale event.

Organised by Laurie O’Dwyer, host of Whiskey Chats Podcast, and his wife Sonya O’Dwyer, the festival is sponsored by Irish Distillers Pernod Ricard, The Shelbourne Bar, and IrishMalts.com.

“We are thrilled to bring Cork Whiskey Fest back for 2025 — each year, the festival grows in popularity, drawing whiskey lovers from all over Ireland and beyond,” said Mr O’Dwyer.

“Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or taking your first sip, there’s something for everyone — it will be a weekend of whiskies, craic and discovery.”

Tickets for each event vary in price, ranging from €25 to €164, and are available for purchase now online at corkwhiskeyfest.com.