The owner of Garavan’s pub on William Street has been granted permission for a new specialist whiskey shop in an adjacent unit.
Paul Garavan has sought permission for a change of use of No 42 William Street – currently the ‘Hearts Galway’ jewellery shop – to a whiskey shop in what is a Protected Structure.
The new shop will sell specialist Irish whiskeys and whiskey-related merchandise.
Mr Garavan owns the shop unit and the other adjoining units, Therapie and Espresso 44.
“The proposed unit is intended to be utilised as a high-end retail experience selling a select range of rare and vintage Irish whiskeys, together with associated products such as glasses and other whiskey-themed products. It is very important to note that it is not proposed to sell any other alcohol in this store e.g. beer or wine or other non-whiskey spirits, and no fridges will be located within this specialised shop,” the application reads.
It points out that since the early 1990s, Irish whiskey has undergone a major resurgence, and production rose from 4.4 million cases in 2008 to a projected 12 million in 2018.
“The purpose is to provide a retail facility in the heart of Galway City which will contribute to this momentum by providing a high-quality establishment specialising in the sale of Irish whiskey.
“It is intended that this unit, selling indigenous Irish produce, will contribute to the local tourism offering, by providing niche retail use not currently available in the area,” the application reads.
It goes on to say that Garavans also won Best Irish Whiskey Bar of the Year (Connacht) in 2014 and 2015, and has developed a strong online retail presence.
“The shop front, though of modern date, conforms to a traditional style that is appropriate in one of the principal streets of Galway City. Its features follow the established patterns of traditional shop fronts, including a cornice, a name facia framed by console brackets, and long pilasters to either side of the shop window and entrance door.
“The proposal to widen the existing door to allow wheelchair access will not have a negative impact on the overall appearance of the shop front which will be preserved,” the application reads.
Separately, it was announced last week that Garavans has won the Whiskey Bar of the Year (Connacht) for the third consecutive year.
The 2016 awards, which took place in the Tullamore Distillery also saw a gold medal being awarded to An Púcán for the same category.
Dunvilles PX Single Malt was named the best Irish Single Malts (12 Years and younger) with gold medals being awarded to The Famous Galway Bay Irish Whiskey and Teeling Single Malt for the same category.
The Irish Whiskey Awards, which are in their fourth year, recognises the excellence and innovation from indigenous producers and distillers. The awards spanned a total of 20 categories, including recognition of the best in Irish gin, Irish vodka, Irish liqueur, craft beer and Whiskey Bar of the Year.