Rebel City Distillery
Centre Park Rd, Cork, Ireland
Gin, vodka, and absinthe are made at Rebel City Distillery, which opened in 2020 in a restored Cork factory. Today, this landmark is a working distillery and a local attraction offering tours, tastings, and cocktail classes. Reserve a spot for everything from absinthe tasting to spirit school to a straightforward distillery tour, which includes a gin and tonic.
The basics
Maharini Irish Gin, made with aromatic spices from India, is the main attraction at Rebel City Distillery. This spirit reflects the heritage of co-owner Bhagya Barrett, who founded the distillery with her husband Robert, the master distiller. Most visitors spend about two hours here, joining a guided distillery tour with a gin-based cocktail. Unique experiences, such as afternoon tea with spiked tea, are also available if you want options beyond a traditional distillery tour.
Things to know before you go
This distillery is a top attraction for spirits lovers in Cork City.
Reservations are required ahead of a visit.
Rebel City Distillery is accessible for people using wheelchairs and strollers.
Set in a historic factory, the distillery can be chilly; wear warm clothes and flat shoes.
Kids are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult.
How to get there
This distillery is located inside the Marina Commercial Park at Unit P6, adjacent to Marine Market. Parking is available on-site, though many visitors walk to this landmark, located about a 15-minute stroll from Cork City center. To reach the distillery by public transportation, take the 212 bus to Glanmire Road.
When to get there
Tours are offered at Rebel City Distillery on Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and bank holiday Sundays. Larger groups should contact the distillery beforehand, as additional time slots may be available. Summer is the most popular season to visit Cork City; the shoulder seasons of spring and fall are also nice for a visit. The distillery can be cold, so bring layers of clothing and a hat, even when it's warm outside.
Beyond Irish whiskey
While Ireland may be best known for its whiskey, in recent years, a wide range of spirits distilled locally have become available. Rebel City Distillery is expanding this range (and the flavor profile) with gin and vodka. This distillery also pushes boundaries with its absinthe, a small-batch spirit praised for its botanicals and flavor balance. Learn how the spirit is made and how to mix it in cocktails on a visit to this distillery.
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