PICTURES: Fire and flame as famous Kilkenny pub launches a 'bewitching spirit'

Kyteler’s Inn, known for its haunting connection to Ireland’s first condemned witch, has now released a premium Irish whiskey in honour of Ireland’s most bewitching spirit.

Kyteler’s Irish Whiskey is Ireland’s only whiskey to celebrate the legendary tale of Dame Alice Kyteler, a wealthy widowed innkeeper, accused of poisoning her four husbands. It was launched recently as part of the Home of Hallowe’en Festival.

A premium blend of Single Malt and Single Pot Still, Kyteler’s Irish Whiskey is matured in ex-bourbon barrels, bottled at 40% ABV and steeped in shadow and intrigue.

In the year 1324, Dame Alice Kyteler of Kilkenny was accused of sorcery, heresy and consorting with demons, in what became the first recorded witch trial in Ireland.

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A wealthy innkeeper who outlived all of her husbands, her influence stirred envy and fear. While Alice fled to safety following her condemnation, her servant, Petronilla de Meath, bore the weight of the charges. She became the first woman in Ireland burned at the stake for witchcraft.

Founder and director JD Flynn says Kilkenny plays such a huge part in Irish distilling history, with the first written account of distilling recorded here in 1324.

“At that same time, Kilkenny also played host to Ireland’s first witch trial, so it feels fitting to release a whiskey that ties both elements of our storied history together,” he said. “Kyteler’s Irish whiskey is Ireland’s darkest legend, bottled.”

Now available to buy from Kyteler’s Inn, Kilkenny and in-store and online at the Wine Centre, (RRP €60). See thewinecentre.ie.