Cape Clear Distillery launches crowdfunding bid
Ireland’s “first” island distillery, Cape Clear Distillery, is seeking to crowdfund £17,050 (US$22,617) so it can start producing gin.
An aerial view of Cape Clear Island, showing the distillery on the bottom left, near the helipadThe distillery on Cape Clear Island is hoping to raise the money through a Kickstarter campaign, which would enable the site to buy the last remaining items it needs to start making gin, with an aim to launch its inaugural product by summer 2019.
The distillery will order a bottling plant, and finalise its gin recipe under the guidance of master distiller Roy Court. The distillery is also awaiting wiring to begin production, which includes a three-phase connection, closed circuit cameras and fire and intruder alarm systems.
Cape Clear Distillery has secured €29,000 (US$32,936) in grants from Irish government agency Údaras na Gaeltachta to further its goal toward gin production this summer.
The distillery is also working to acquire solar water heating equipment and is currently improving the site so that it is suitable for visitors. This includes the installation of paving slabs, safety fencing and a pathway. A water treatment system will also be installed.
The Kickstarter campaign is open until Sunday 14 April. In exchange for funding, backers can receive a number of rewards such as a branded whiskey glass, a cap, distillery bag, keyring or a weekend at the distillery.
