Black Donkey Brewing – Wild Irish Craft at Its Best

Bottles of Black Donkey Brewing beer on a wooden table with Irish countryside in the background

📜 Short History:

In the lush heart of Ireland’s County Roscommon, one brewery has broken the mold of traditional brewing while honoring ancient techniques. Welcome to Black Donkey Brewing, where wild yeast, farmhouse spirit, and small-batch integrity converge to create some of the most unique and flavorful beers on the Emerald Isle.

The Story Behind Black Donkey Brewing

Black Donkey Brewing was founded in 2014 by husband-and-wife duo Richard Siberry and Michaela Dillon, both returning to Ireland after years abroad. Their mission? To reconnect with the land, revive lost brewing methods, and produce beer that tells a story—one bottle at a time.

Inspired by farmhouse traditions of spontaneous fermentation and natural ingredients, the brewery’s name reflects its commitment to authenticity and stubborn independence. Just like the black donkey—a resilient and hardworking symbol of rural Ireland—this brewery treads its own path, often wild, always intentional.

What’s on Tap: Signature Brews & Wild Ales

Black Donkey Brewing stands out for its use of local wild yeasts, open fermentation, and traditional Irish grains. Their beer range is varied, often experimental, and always flavorful. Here are a few highlights from their core and seasonal lineup:

Saison “Sheep Stealer”: Their flagship beer. A citrusy, spicy Belgian-style farmhouse ale fermented with wild yeast and open air—zesty, dry, and complex.
A bold American-style IPA with tropical hop notes, medium bitterness, and a slightly hazy finish. A favorite among hop lovers.
Underworld Series: An ongoing wild ale series, fermented with native Irish yeast harvested from caves and boglands. Expect funk, tartness, and surprise.
Western Warrior: A red ale with toffee sweetness, roasted malt character, and subtle fruitiness. Classic yet deeply Irish.
Golden Disc: A light, dry saison brewed with ancient Irish spelt grain and a touch of lemon peel. Refreshing and historic.

Each beer is bottle-conditioned, unfiltered, and unpasteurized—alive with character and layers of flavor that evolve over time. You’re not just drinking a beer; you’re experiencing a fermentation journey.

More Than a Brewery: A Place with Personality

Black Donkey Brewing is located near Ballinlough, County Roscommon, surrounded by rolling farmland and winding country roads. The site itself is a reflection of the brewery’s ethos: modest, functional, and intimately tied to nature.

Atmosphere & Experience

Although the brewery doesn’t operate a full pub or beer hall, they do welcome pre-booked tours and tastings. These small-group experiences offer insight into their unique fermentation practices, hands-on bottling methods, and raw ingredient sourcing. If you’re lucky, you might even get a glimpse into their “Underworld” lab, where wild yeast strains are isolated and tamed.

The vibe is informal, earthy, and refreshingly uncommercial. It’s the kind of place where you’ll likely meet one of the founders, hear stories about wild yeast adventures, and leave with a few bottles aged to perfection.

Award-Winning Taste and Global Recognition

Since its launch, Black Donkey Brewing has earned a reputation as one of Ireland’s most innovative craft breweries. Their beers have received praise at both national and international competitions, including:

Best Saison – Irish Craft Beer Awards
Gold Medal – World Beer Awards (Wild Ale Category)
“Best New Brewery” nominations in multiple Irish publications

More importantly, they’ve built a loyal following among beer enthusiasts, foodies, and curious tourists who seek more than just a pint—they seek a story. Online reviews highlight the authenticity, educational aspect of tours, and the surprisingly wide flavor range of their brews.

“One of the most original beers I’ve had in Ireland. Bold, funky, and full of soul.” – Untappd Review

Plan Your Visit: How to Reach Black Donkey Brewing

Though tucked away in rural Ireland, getting to Black Donkey Brewing is part of the charm. Here’s what you need to know:

Directions

Located just off the N60 between Castlerea and Ballyhaunis, the brewery is accessible by car and within a short drive from Knock Airport. Look for signs off the main road, or use Google Maps for exact coordinates. Parking is available on-site.

Conclusion: Raise a Glass to Black Donkey Brewing

If you’re looking for craft beer that goes beyond convention, brewed with wild spirit and rooted in Irish tradition, Black Donkey Brewing is your destination. Each bottle tells a story—from its rustic origin to the final pour—and offers a taste of something genuine, unpredictable, and unforgettable.

Plan a visit, take the tour, and let Black Donkey Brewing surprise you with every sip.