Our first-ever release from Redacted Whiskey isn’t just another bottle on the shelf; it’s a full-blown love letter to everything that makes Irish whiskey magical, old-school, and just a bit rebellious. And the best part? It all starts right down the road from where I live at the mighty Killowen Distillery.
Killowen is a special place, a small-batch distillery where traditional methods aren’t just embraced; they’re celebrated. We’re talking wild fermentation, flame distillation, and worm tub condensation—techniques that pull out every bit of character and flavour. When it came time to create our debut whiskey, there was no question in our minds: Killowen had to be part of it. Their approach to whiskey-making, the dedication to the craft, and that old-school flair made them the perfect partner for Redacted Whiskey’s grand entrance.
Bottle 001: Our Work of Art
For something this extraordinary, we knew the packaging had to be just as memorable. So, we teamed up with the brilliant Fiona McDonnell, a Belfast-based illustrator whose work brings a burst of life and color to everything she touches. She captured the haunting yet captivating spirit of the Mourne folklore, “The Black Dog of the Rock,” and brought it to life on our label. Fiona’s art isn’t just decoration; it’s a story, a tribute to the wild and rugged landscape that surrounds us.
If you haven’t yet checked out Fiona’s art, do yourself a favor and get on that. She’s part of the UsFolk Illustration Agency, and her work is always infused with a mix of social commentary, heritage, and pure creative genius. Trust us, her website and Instagram are an absolute treasure trove. We feel so lucky to have her artwork grace our very first bottle.
The Whiskey: Big, Bold, and Unapologetically Irish
And now, to the liquid itself. Our Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey from Killowen is an absolute powerhouse, coming in at 62.45% ABV, cask strength, non-chill filtered, and with zero added coloring. It’s whiskey as it was meant to be: raw, pure, and brimming with intensity. From the first sip, it commands your attention, with bold flavors that evolve and keep you coming back for more.
This is the kind of whiskey you want to savor, share, and put on display. It’s not just a bottle; it’s a testament to what we love about Irish whiskey—where heritage meets innovation. It’s something you break out when the occasion calls for a glass that’s truly special. Every time you pour a glass, it’s a reminder of the passion and craftsmanship that went into it, from Killowen’s wild methods to Fiona’s jaw-dropping label art.
Why This Release Means the World to Us
This isn’t just business for us; it’s our shared passion project. Redacted Whiskey has always been about doing things differently, and partnering with Killowen for our first release made perfect sense. Supporting local craft, telling local stories, and celebrating the legends that make this place what it is—that’s what we’re all about. And with Michael and me working together, what could go wrong?
For us, this whiskey captures everything we believe in: a respect for tradition, an excitement for pushing boundaries, and a deep love for what makes Irish whiskey special. We’re thrilled to share Bottle 001 with you, and we hope you love it as much as we do.
Sláinte!
