Slane Whiskey rocks up with Special Edition to mark 40 years of concerts

As we await word of the 2022 Slane Castle Concert, Slane Irish Whiskey has launched a 'Slane Special Edition', marking four decades of music at the iconic venue.

The long-awaited third release from Slane Distillery, the limited-edition blend was created as a tribute to Lord Henry Conyngham and his trailblazing vision to bring Ireland together in 1981 by throwing the country’s biggest rock concert, welcoming 80,000 music lovers to his front lawn at Slane Castle. Over 40 years later, Lord Henry’s vision lives on having played host to some of the biggest music acts on the planet and attracting visitors from all over the world.

Just 2,928 bottles of this special limited-edition blend will be available to buy from selected retailers across Ireland.

Slane Special Edition amps up the flavour that comes from Slane Irish Whiskey’s signature triple casked method by using extra virgin oak casks blended with seasoned barrels and Spanish sherry casks. The liquid has been bottled at 45 per cent alcohol per volume (ABV), versus the Slane core blend at 40 per cent ABV. The 45 pr cent ABV is another nod to Slane’s music legacy with a neat riff on the 45 rpm record single - a format that changed music forever. Slane Special Edition has a nose of bold toasted oak and vanilla spice notes found in Slane Irish Whiskey’s core blend to deliver a rich, complex whiskey with a warm, lingering finish. Slane Special Edition is a whiskey that can stand on its own, on the rocks, or sing through a cocktail.

Presented in its distinctive black glass bottle with embossed crest, with new label artwork inspired by 1981 and images by Irish photographers Andy Spearman and Fran Caffrey, Slane Special Edition is boxed in a gift carton with recommended drinks recipes, details of Slane’s music story and exclusive access to a 40th anniversary Spotify playlist, curated by Slane Irish Whiskey co-founder and son of Lord Henry, Alex Conyngham. A powerful and eclectic soundtrack, it includes music from some of the biggest names to have played at Slane Castle over the years.

Afternoon Tea

Meanwhile, Slane Castle has introduced a new Afternoon Tea Experience combining a miniature guided tour with the grand tradition of afternoon tea and the modern addition of a glass of fizz. The Slane Castle Afternoon Tea Experience is presented at 3.30pm most Saturdays starting on Saturday 19th March. On Mothers Day, Sunday 27th March, Afternoon Tea will be served at 12.30pm and 3.30pm. Reservations are essential for all.

Guests are welcomed in the main hallway with its imposing fireplaces, fine Doric columns and magnificent plasterwork. This room has a place in rock history too, as U2s video for 'Pride -In the Name of Love' was filmed here. The personable tour guide will bring you into the King George IV ballroom to enjoy a glass of Prosecco while hearing about this remarkable circular room which is one of the finest examples of neo-gothic architecture in the entire country. Originally designed by Thomas Hopper as a library, it features perfect acoustics, a spectacular ornate ceiling and tall windows allowing glorious light to pour in.

The Gandon Room is designed in a warm, inviting club style, ideal for groups of all sizes from two upwards, to enjoy a gracious afternoon tea. Lord Henry's famous Beauparc silver teapot is even used on very special occasions.

The Slane Castle Afternoon Tea Experience is €50 per person. Reservations are essential and can be made at www.slanecastle.ie. Full castle tours can also be pre-booked and drop-ins will be accommodated where possible.