Sullivan’s Brewing Launches Maltings Irish Red Ale in Kilkenny

Kilkenny’s brewing tradition has taken a significant step forward with the launch of Sullivan’s Brewing Company’s first-ever brew, Maltings Irish Red Ale. This landmark event took place on John Street, where the company has established its brewery, marking a new chapter in the city’s storied brewing history.

The Maltings Irish Red Ale was hand-bottled directly from the fermenter and became available for local residents to collect from the Sullivan’s Taproom over the past few days. The response has been overwhelmingly positive, reflecting a strong demand for locally brewed beer. This revival of brewing in Kilkenny comes after a long hiatus, following the closure of the Smithwick’s Brewery in 2012, when the iconic brand was relocated to Dublin by Diageo.

A Community-Driven Revival

Since the departure of Smithwick’s, co-founders Dan Smithwick and Alan Smithwick, along with their team, have dedicated themselves to restoring brewing to Kilkenny. Dan Smithwick described the return of brewing as a “life mission” for him and his family. The brewery, now based on John Street, serves as the spiritual home of Sullivan’s Brewing Company and will be the main site for domestic draught production.

Proceeds from the sale of the inaugural batch of Maltings Irish Red Ale will be donated to Teac Tom, a local suicide prevention charity. This collaboration was initiated by Alex and Kelly from Sullivan’s Taproom, who have long supported the charity, showcasing a commitment to community wellbeing alongside business goals.

Teac Tom has also reached a significant milestone this year. After operating from Ormonde Street since 2014, the charity is preparing to relocate to a new facility on Croker’s Hill. According to Fiona O’Neill, a representative from Teac Tom, the move will significantly reduce operational costs, allowing more funds to be allocated towards providing vital counselling services for the community.

Brewing Dreams Realized

In a statement reflecting on the brewing breakthrough, Dan Smithwick characterized the occasion as the “stuff of dreams.” He noted that the day marked a ceremonial achievement, emphasizing the partnership with Teac Tom as crucial for raising necessary funds.

“I’ve been dreaming about this since I was a child, bringing brewing back to Kilkenny,” he said. “It’s in the DNA of myself and Alan, and the journey to get it to this point has been exceptionally long and difficult. But looking around now at what is like a bespoke built brewery for the space here in the center of Kilkenny City, I’m enormously proud.”

The return of brewing to Kilkenny not only revitalizes a cherished tradition but also strengthens community ties, as local businesses and charities unite to foster a brighter future for the region. As Sullivan’s Brewing Company continues to develop its operations, the community of Kilkenny can look forward to more innovative brews while supporting vital local causes.