A premium tour combining Irish whiskey education with artisan food pairings at specialist venues including the Celtic Whiskey Shop and a whiskey-focused restaurant. Learn to pair single pot still Irish whiskey with cheese, charcuterie, and chocolate.
The Whiskey and Food Pairing Tour is a three-hour premium experience in Dublin city centre combining Irish whiskey education with artisan food pairings at specialist venues, including the Celtic Whiskey Shop and a whiskey-focused restaurant. The tour covers four or more whiskey tastings, each paired with a matching bite such as farmhouse cheese, charcuterie, or dark chocolate, giving a savoury-leaning tasting menu with sweet chocolate pairings toward the close. A guide explains the difference between single pot still, single malt, and blended Irish whiskey styles, along with the history of Irish whiskey production and its recent resurgence. The €70-85 per-person price includes all whiskey tastings, food pairings, printed tasting notes, and a discount toward bottle purchases at the Celtic Whiskey Shop, but does not include transport or additional drinks outside the tasting flight. Because the tour involves alcohol tasting, it is limited to adults, moves at a relaxed seated pace for much of its length, and is conducted in English in small groups so that questions about individual whiskeys can be addressed directly. Non-alcoholic tasting alternatives are not standard, so visitors who do not drink whiskey should inquire before booking.
What is included
- 4+ whiskey tastings, food pairings, tasting notes, bottle discount
Highlights
- Four or more Irish whiskey tastings paired with matching food
- Visit to the Celtic Whiskey Shop, one of Dublin's leading whiskey retailers
- Learn the difference between single pot still, single malt, and blended styles
- Pairings include farmhouse cheese, charcuterie, and dark chocolate
- Printed tasting notes and a bottle-purchase discount included
Tips for visiting
- This tour is for adults only due to the whiskey tastings involved
- Eat a light meal beforehand, as the tastings involve alcohol on a partially empty stomach otherwise
- Inquire in advance if a non-alcoholic alternative is needed, as it is not standard
- Small groups are used, so book ahead for weekend evening slots
- Bring identification, as venues may request proof of age before serving whiskey
When to visit
Evening slots suit the tour's relaxed, tasting-focused format best, particularly outside peak summer weekends when venues are quieter.
Accessibility
Venues visited are indoor and generally step-free, though some historic Dublin buildings may have limited wheelchair access at entrances; inquire ahead about specific venues.
Frequently asked questions
Is this tour suitable for whiskey beginners?
Yes, the guide introduces the basics of Irish whiskey styles and production, making it accessible to newcomers as well as enthusiasts.
What food is paired with the whiskey?
Pairings typically include farmhouse cheese, charcuterie, and dark chocolate matched to each whiskey's flavour profile.
Is there a minimum age requirement?
Yes, participants must be of legal drinking age in Ireland, which is 18, since the tour centres on whiskey tastings.