Drogheda is one of the oldest Irish towns where the first written records of whiskey production date back to 1556. The town has a rich history of whiskey distilling and had 18 operating distilleries in 1774. As we know, Irish whiskey was in decline in the 20th century, due to the civil war, trade dispute with the UK, and Prohibition in the US with only a handful distilleries remaining operational, none of those in Drogheda. Boann Distillery joined the resurgence of Irish whiskey in 2019, producing the first spirit in the town in more than 160 years. The company was launched by Patrick "The Whistler" Cooney and his wife Marie with several other family members. Backed by 40 years of experience in the industry, the family has the know-how, skill, and passion to create premium Irish whiskey. On one hand, they honor the rich tradition of Irish whiskey, on the other they take innovative approaches using cutting-edge technology which includes their state-of-the-art brewhouse and unique 3 copper-pot stills that use nanotechnology all with the goal of creating some of the finest whiskey and craft gin. All the ingredients are 100% natural, including locally-grown barley from native farmers and water from the Boyne Valley well. The operation is overseen by Michael Walsh. Ireland's youngest head distiller has accumulated a vast amount of knowledge during his Chemical Engineering studies and when getting his Certificate in Distilling in 2012, quickly rising through the ranks. They recycle their water and harness the heat that is generated during distillation, which then helps run their packaging lines and heat their restaurant, visitor center, and offices. Distillation byproducts are used as animal feed. Walsh is more than just a head distiller, though. He is also the family beekeeper, which naturally led to The Whistler Beekeepers Select Irish Honey expression. Based on a blended Irish whiskey that is aged in ex-Bourbon barrels, the spirit gets infused with honey from their family orchards, resulting in a creamy, sweet, and decadent drink that has won several awards.