Kinnegar Brewing Ireland – Farmhouse Roots, World-Class Flavour
At TheCru.ie, we take great pride in supporting Irish craft breweries that combine integrity, creativity, and consistency — and Kinnegar Brewing Ireland ticks every box. Based in beautiful County Donegal, this independent brewery has become one of the most respected names in craft beer Ireland. Known for its clean, balanced styles and strong sense of place, Kinnegar Brewing brings a refreshing clarity and quality to everything it produces — from sessionable pale ales to bold barrel-aged stouts.
Founded by Rick LeVert and Libby Carton in 2013, Kinnegar Brewing began life on a small farm near Rathmullan in north Donegal. With a background in design and a passion for great beer, the pair built the business from scratch, inspired by European farmhouse traditions and a deep-rooted commitment to independent production. From those humble beginnings, the brewery has grown steadily and sensibly, moving into a purpose-built facility in nearby Letterkenny in 2017 to meet growing demand while keeping their brewing ethos intact.
Today, Kinnegar Brewing Ireland is known across the country and beyond for its no-fuss approach to quality brewing — letting ingredients shine and styles speak for themselves. It’s craft beer for those who appreciate balance, character, and honesty in the glass.
Kinnegar’s home in Donegal isn’t just a backdrop — it’s at the heart of everything they do. The brewery’s name itself comes from the nearby Kinnegar beach, reflecting the founders’ connection to the land and coast that shape their identity. The rural setting, fresh Atlantic air, and laid-back pace all influence the brewery’s character and approach. At Kinnegar, there’s no rush. Every beer is brewed slowly, carefully, and with purpose.
Their branding also reflects this quiet confidence — clean, distinctive labels featuring the brewery’s beloved hare motif, and beer names that nod to local culture, nature, and a touch of wit. For those looking for a true taste of the Irish countryside with a world-class edge, Kinnegar is a standout choice within craft beer Ireland online.
Kinnegar Brewing Ireland’s philosophy is rooted in simplicity, balance, and quality. While many breweries chase extremes or fads, Kinnegar focuses on clarity of flavour, elegant styles, and delivering the best version of every beer they make. Their motto — “Brewed with Passion. Packaged with Love.” — isn’t just a slogan. It’s how they operate, day in and day out.
They produce unfiltered, naturally carbonated beers using only the highest-quality ingredients: Irish malt, whole-leaf hops where possible, and carefully selected yeasts. Every batch is brewed with precision, with fermentation and conditioning times guided by flavour, not by deadlines. This traditional, hands-on approach is one of the reasons Kinnegar’s beers are consistently praised for their clean finish and depth of character.
Sustainability is another core part of the brewery’s values. From reusing spent grain to reducing energy waste, Kinnegar takes its environmental responsibility seriously — all part of the long-term thinking that guides the brewery.
Kinnegar’s range includes a dependable selection of core beers complemented by seasonal specials, limited editions, and experimental small-batch releases. Each beer reflects the brewery’s house style — balanced, flavourful, and unmistakably Kinnegar.
Scraggy Bay IPA – A flagship West Coast-style IPA with citrus, pine, and a rounded malt backbone. Smooth, bitter, and endlessly drinkable.
Limeburner Pale Ale – A crisp, zesty pale ale with a light body and refreshing hop character. Great as a fridge staple or introductory craft beer.
Devil’s Backbone Amber – Rich and malty with gentle bitterness. This red ale is a classic done right.
Yannaroddy Porter – A robust yet smooth porter with notes of roasted coffee, chocolate, and dark fruit.
Rustbucket Rye Ale – A farmhouse-style rye ale with spice and depth, showcasing Kinnegar’s Belgian and German influences.
Kinnegar is also known for its barrel-aged and mixed-fermentation beers, such as the Brewers at Play series, which gives the team freedom to experiment with yeast, wood, and time. These are small-batch releases that offer something extra special for craft beer Dublin customers and collectors alike.
Kinnegar Brewing Ireland has picked up several national awards and earned consistent praise in international craft beer circles. But what really sets them apart is the loyalty and respect they’ve built within the Irish beer community. Discerning drinkers, publicans, and retailers know that when you pick up a Kinnegar beer, you’re getting quality in every sip.
Their beers feature regularly in top-tier bars, restaurants, and bottle shops across Ireland. They’ve also represented Ireland at global beer events, contributing to the country’s growing reputation as a hub for world-class craft brewing.
What’s perhaps most impressive is how Kinnegar has grown without losing its soul. Despite scaling up, they’ve retained their independence, their rural location, and their unique voice. This makes them a true role model for the next generation of Irish brewers — and a staple for anyone serious about supporting authentic, Irish-made craft beer online.
Support Irish craft beer by exploring more from the best Irish breweries.
Looking to add some of Donegal’s finest to your fridge? Shop the best of craft beer Ireland and from around the world online with TheCru.ie or in our Dublin craft beer store, Carry Out Tyrrelstown in Dublin 15. We’re proud to stock a rotating range of Kinnegar Brewing Ireland favourites — including core classics like Scraggy Bay and Devil’s Backbone, along with new and seasonal releases when available.
Order your craft beer online for delivery or for collection in our craft beer Dublin shop, Carry Out Tyrrelstown in Dublin 15. Whether you're a fan of hop-forward IPAs, dark malty stouts, or clean, elegant ales, Kinnegar offers a depth and consistency that keeps customers coming back.
Kinnegar Brewing Ireland proves that craft beer doesn’t need to shout to stand out. With clarity, craft, and character at the forefront, this Donegal brewery continues to lead the way in showing how Irish beer can compete with the best in the world — all while staying true to its farmhouse roots. Add a few bottles or cans to your next order and experience why Kinnegar is a favourite in homes, pubs, and beer fridges across Ireland and beyond.