Tipperary Boutique Distillery named Overall Winner at Irish Made Awards for sustainability

A local distillery nestled in the fertile Golden Vale of South Tipperary has emerged as the standout winner at Irish Country Magazine’s Irish Made Awards, with Tipperary Boutique Distillery claiming both the Sustainability category and the coveted title of Overall Winner.

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The family-run business, located on Ballindoney Farm near Cahir, produces whiskey and gin from grain grown on its own land, making it Ireland’s first solar-powered distillery and a model of sustainable rural enterprise.

As part of its victory, the distillery receives a €20,000 business-boosting prize, which includes a premium advertising package with Irish Country Magazine and an annual Producers Circle membership to the Circle Club at the Bord Gáis Energy Theatre.

Founded by Jennifer Nickerson and her husband Liam Ahearn, Tipperary Boutique Distillery is steeped in both local heritage and global expertise.

Jennifer, the company’s Managing Director, is the only female whiskey distiller and poitín producer in Ireland, while Liam represents the sixth generation of his family to grow and harvest barley on the Ballindoney land. Jennifer’s father, Stuart Nickerson, a world-renowned whiskey maker, also lends his expertise to the enterprise.

The Irish Made Awards recognition marks a significant milestone for a business that blends traditional farming, cutting-edge sustainability, and international craftsmanship. It also positions Tipperary Boutique Distillery as a shining example of how rural Ireland’s spirit of innovation continues to thrive.

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