Kyrö Distillery Company
Etelä-Pohjanmaa
Kyrö Distillery Company, located in Isokyrö, Finland, is a distinguished rye distillery known for producing high-quality rye gin and whisky. Founded in 2014 in the premises of the Kyrönmaa cooperative dairy, the distillery quickly gained international recognition with its flagship Napue Gin, launched on the 300th anniversary of the Battle of Napue. The company emphasizes local heritage and Finnish rye, using 100% Finnish whole grain rye distilled in traditional Scottish-style pot stills. Kyrö's rye whisky matures for three to five years in new American oak barrels, resulting in a unique flavor profile distinct from typical barley malts. The distillery also produces a variety of other products including a barrel-aged dark gin, a cream liqueur made with local cream and licorice, and a cranberry-flavored long drink. Its innovative packaging and branding have won international design awards, enhancing its global appeal. Kyrö Distillery exports to multiple countries and operates a European webshop through its subsidiary in Germany, serving whisky enthusiasts worldwide. The distillery's close ties to local history and culture, reflected in its product names and design, make it a unique attraction for visitors interested in craft spirits and Finnish traditions.
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Tip: Visitors are advised to check opening hours and consider booking tours or tastings in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons. The best time to visit is during summer months when the distillery often hosts events. Discounts may be available for groups or through advance online purchases. The distillery shop offers a range of products, including limited editions, that can be purchased on-site or via their European webshop.
Interesting facts
- •Kyrö Distillery's Napue Gin won the Best Gin for Gin & Tonic category at the IWSC Wine and Spirits competition in 2015.
- •The distillery uses 100% Finnish whole grain rye for its whisky, unlike most malt whiskies which use barley.
- •Kyrö's packaging design by Werklig was shortlisted at the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity in 2015.
- •Kyrö produces hand sanitizer in addition to its spirits, demonstrating adaptability during the COVID-19 pandemic.
- •The name 'Napue' references the nearby Battle of Napue memorial, connecting the brand to local history.
History
Kyrö Distillery Company was established in 2014 in Isokyrö, Finland, repurposing the facilities of a former cooperative dairy.
Its first major product, Napue Gin, was launched in 2010 to commemorate the 300th anniversary of the Battle of Napue, a significant local historical event.
The distillery expanded its portfolio to include rye whisky, with the first batches completed in 2017 and the flagship Kyrö Malt Rye Whisky released in 2020.
In 2019, a new whisky distillery building was opened adjacent to the original site to triple production capacity.
Leadership changes include the appointment of Antti Pankakoski as chairman in 2014 and Christian Lorenzen from 2020.
The company has steadily increased its international presence, including opening a subsidiary in Germany in 2020 to handle European sales.
Place Guide
Original Distillery Building2014
The site where Kyrö Distillery began operations in 2014, originally a cooperative dairy building. Visitors can learn about the distillation process and the company's roots.
New Whisky Distillery2019
Opened in 2019 next to the original building, this facility expanded Kyrö's whisky production capacity threefold, allowing for larger batches and increased international distribution.
Napue Gin Tasting Room
Dedicated space for sampling Kyrö's award-winning gins, including the Napue Gin distilled from 16 botanicals and the barrel-aged Kyrö Dark Gin.
