Viking Irish Drinks at Dennison’s Farm was set up as a company in 2017, with cider production commencing in 2019. At the heart of the company is three unique craft cider styles, based on old farm recipes, including Medium Dry Orchard Cuvée, the immensely popular Harvest Blush and Ireland’s first Hop flavoured cider, Hop-IT.

Established by entrepreneur David Dennison, Viking Irish Drinks is sold online and in a wide range of independent off-licences and supermarkets, bars, and restaurants. Since May 2021, Viking Irish Drinks is part of SuperValu’s prestigious Food Academy Programme.

Sustainability is at the fore of Viking Irish Drinks, as all production is organically based. Wastewater is fed to a reed bed system that creates a wildlife and pollinator hub, whilst native beehives on Dennison’s Farm create a continuous pollination for the Orchard. An entirely in-house company - with bottling and labelling taking place in their cidery - all packaging is environmentally friendly and fully recyclable. Acknowledging the strict organic methods when growing and producing Viking Irish Drinks, and it is something that the team takes great pride in.

The planting of the apple orchards started in 2014 and today there are 3.5 hectares of orchards, with 14 different cider apples growing. Additionally, there is 1 hectare of outdoor vines for wine making and ⅓ hectare of Blackcurrants for Viking Irish Drinks Blackcurrant Liqueur and Harvest Blush Craft Cider.

 A Sommelier by profession, David Dennison has over 35 years’ experience in the food and drinks industry. In addition, David has represented Ireland at World and European Sommelier competitions, and he is a holder of a Wine & Spirit Education Trust Diploma (WSET) and has previously held teaching positions for the afore-mentioned organisation.

Along with to sustainability, CSR is important to the company. Viking Irish Drinks first ‘All-Night Charity Walk through the Orchard/Vineyard’ started in 2019 and has now become an inaugural event. In 2020, a large sum of money was raised for a deserving cause in Pieta House, and the company’s chosen charity for 2021 is Solas Cancer Support Centre in Waterford.

Currently, Viking Irish Drinks is trialling three more ciders for 2021 / 2022. To stay up to date on all happenings, follow our blog or subscribe to our Newsletter.