Blending science, community and nature in modern Irish spirits with pro-social disruption

This article is part of the 'Celebrating Circular` initiative and story collection that spotlights trailblazer Irish businesses making strides towards a more sustainable and low-carbon economy.

There are many ways to design an innovative product, develop a community, or care for the environment, but doing all these things together is extremely rare.

Blending science, community and nature makes creating modern Irish spirits different at Dublin-based Stillgarden Distillery.

Recognising potential

Managing a community garden might be the most obvious manifestation of this mindset, as she shares that this element of the business is her pride and joy.

“We are based in an up-and-coming neighbourhood in Dublin 8, which didn't have the best reputation. There was an abandoned land close to us that was a hub for antisocial behaviour, where we saw the potential to create a community garden. Everyone said we were mad, and it will never work.”

With the support from Dublin City Council, they turned the site into a flourishing garden, which now plays a vital part in creating their products while inviting people to become part of a new type of community.

“We have our ups and downs, including a constant fight against vandalism, but eventually, as we hosted programmes and kept the garden open, it started attracting more people from the neighbourhood.”

Viki explains that in production, they use vacuum distillation, which requires less energy while capturing the essence of ingredients, resulting in beautiful flavours.

“We are also mindful of food waste and aim to repurpose byproducts in making ice cream and tea bags. We give away what we cannot use to local chicken farmers, and we even have a tradition of collaborating with local bakers to make Christmas gin cakes using our byproducts.”

Stillgarden Distillery is also committed to the All-Ireland Pollinator Plan, an initiative to protect pollinators such as bees and butterflies and ensure their vital role in Ireland’s ecosystem.

Their garden has dedicated sections that are maintained to go a little more “wild” to encourage a diverse range of pollinators.

Questioning the obvious to adopt changes for a more sustainable business

On a personal level, Viki doesn't like waste, which comes across in how she manages every aspect of the business.

“I feel passionate about avoiding waste and questioning what we are doing and why.”

Sharing what they have learned is also important to her, and she was thrilled to give a lecture as part of the MODOS sustainable business course.

“I think this programme gives participants a great overview with practical examples so they can challenge the obvious with more confidence.”

Building meaningful connections and empowering the local community

Being sociable and enjoying connecting with people makes it easier for Viki to build meaningful relationships with others, whether she visits their stockist, hosts events, or meets with their gardening community.