Built surrounding the River Nore and a commercial centre down through time, one can say that Kilkenny has been entwined with all of Ireland’s seminal historical happenings. Ranging from being a centerpiece of ecclesiastic Ireland and later as a center of monastic life, to the arrival of the Normans, and to the unrest and conquest of the Cromwellian period, Kilkenny has always been a destination city.
Nicknamed as the Marble City, Kilkenny is known for its black marble limestone bedrock. The pure limestone enriched Irish water of the River Nore has been a perfect component of brewing in Kilkenny for over 800 years, since the time when the Franciscans initiated their brewing culture here so many centuries ago.
Sullivan’s proudly pays homage to Kilkenny’s ancient past evidenced in the naming of our Sullivan’s Black Marble Stout. We also pay tribute to the “recent” historical period of the founding of our brewery in 1702 in a building called The Maltings, it being the inspiration for our Irish red ale being called Sullivan’s Maltings Irish Ale.
Today, as a Medieval City and a cornerstone fixture as part of Ireland’s Ancient East, Kilkenny is one of the most visited areas of Ireland, known for beautiful attractions such as Kilkenny Castle, the Butler Gardens, the Cathedral of St. Canice, Kells Priory, and the Dominican Black Abbey. Known now for its focus on the arts and home of signature festivals and events, when you do visit, please permit us to offer a warm Irish welcome at our Sullivan’s Taproom, only steps from Kilkenny Castle.