To commemorate 300 years of brewing an official unveiling of the ‘300 years of Smithwick’s’ exhibition took place at Kilkenny’s historical St Francis Abbey Brewery, and the glitterati of Kilkenny were invited to join in the celebrations.
On Thursday night last the exhibition detailing the long and rich history of brewing in Kilkenny was launched and a series of speakers relevant to the promotion of the brewing tradition in St Francis Abbey Brewery addressed the large gathering of publications, political representatives, members of the Smithwick family and members of the media who were invited to the event. The crowd was treated to music from the River Valley Band and a a lavish barbecue served in a marquee. A second event also took place the following night for staff past and present of St Francis Abbey Brewery.
As Ireland’s longest established brewer, the ‘300 years of Smithwick’s’ exhibition illustrates the craft that goes into making Smithwick's and the long brewing tradition in Kilkenny.
The exhibition comprises a series of artefacts, pictures and audio that tell the story of the evolution of the St Francis Abbey Brewery from the founding of the Abbey in the 13th century to the present day. It also covers the generations of the Smithwick’s family involved in the brewery, the ingredients and the brewing processes. There are also details of the prestigious brewing awards won as far back as 1892. It is to be open to the public.
The old advertising and packaging of Smithwick’s is also on display and visitors will enjoy how this has evolved over the years. Showreels of past television advertising from the 1970s are also available for viewing.
Speaking to the very large crowd gathered under the marquees erected in the grounds of St Francis Abbey Brewery on Thursday night last, John Council, supply director, Global Beer said,” Diageo is custodian of some of the world’s leading beer brands and within that family sitting at the head of the table is Smithwick’s – a wonderful rich ale, whose wonderful taste reflects the centuries of craftsmanship, resolve, independence and to this day is an inspiration to our brewers, to Diageo and to the people of Kilkenny.”
Head brewer Ian Hamilton also gave a humorous speech marking the momentous occasion for one and all.
Mayor Malcolm Noonan welcomed the celebration and Kilkenny’s newest tourist attraction which he said was a welcome addition to what was already available to tourists to the Marble City.
Also speaking about the Smithwick’s brand and the 300th anniversary, brand manager, Trevor Hunt added, “Smithwick’s is experiencing a renaissance, a revival and a well deserved re-appreciation of this ‘Superior Irish ale’ and this is being proved as consumers return to traditional tried and trusted brands. Diageo has supported the brand with a complete overhaul of the Smithwick’s image with new livery, bar taps and a whole suite of advertising and promotional campaigns. Its performance is growing not just inside the heartlands of Kilkenny and Carlow but also across the South East, North West and the West of Ireland. Outside Ireland, Smithwick’s is now the number one imported ale to North America and Canada.”
The Smithwick’s Rhythm & Roots Festival also marked the occasion and the festival was free to all in the bars and venues in the city from April 29 - May 3. The Rhythm & Roots Festival has been in existence since 1998 and this year to tie in with the Smithwick’s 300th anniversary of brewing in Kilkenny, Smithwick’s was the festival sponsor.
A recently launched website showcasing 300 years in pictures showcases Smithwick’s history and informs consumers about the place of ale in Irish history and its role as a precursor to all modern beer. www.smithwicks.com
