Western Herd Ireland – Craft Beer from the Edge of the Atlantic
At TheCru.ie, we’re proud to champion independent Irish breweries that not only produce exceptional beer, but also tell a story of place, passion, and people. Western Herd Ireland is one of those special names — a craft brewery perched on a hilltop farm in County Clare, delivering bold, flavour-driven beers that reflect the rugged beauty of Ireland’s west coast. For fans of craft beer Ireland who want authentic, locally brewed beer with heart, Western Herd is a name to remember.
Founded in 2015 by siblings Maeve Sheridan and Michael Eustace, Western Herd was born from a shared love of beer, community, and the landscape that shaped them. The brewery is located just outside Ennis, in rural Clare, where fields roll out toward the Atlantic and the pace of life moves with the seasons. The name ‘Western Herd’ pays homage to their roots — a nod to both the cattle-farming heritage of their family farm and the gathering of like-minded beer lovers who now follow the brand.
What started as a passion project has grown into one of Ireland’s most respected independent breweries, known for its adventurous approach, consistent quality, and commitment to brewing beers that are as expressive as the land they come from.
From their unique location in Kilmaley, County Clare, Western Herd has carved out a distinct identity in the Irish craft beer landscape. While many breweries operate in urban or industrial spaces, Western Herd is firmly rooted in the rural — literally brewing on a hill overlooking the Atlantic, with wild winds and big skies as constant companions.
This connection to place runs deep. It’s reflected in their beer names, which often draw from local landmarks, stories, and characters. Whether it’s a nod to Loop Head or Lahinch, there’s a strong sense of West of Ireland pride in every pint. For those of us in Dublin or further afield, each can or bottle is like a little postcard from Clare.
At the heart of Western Herd Ireland is a clear brewing philosophy: make beer that’s full of flavour, honest in character, and brewed with respect for both process and drinker. Their approach blends modern craft techniques with traditional sensibilities — focusing on balance, drinkability, and quality ingredients.
They brew on a 10-hectolitre system, allowing for both creativity and consistency, and use the finest malt, hops, and yeast available. Whether it’s an American-style pale ale or a dark, malt-forward porter, every beer is brewed by hand in small batches. There’s no rushing, no cutting corners — just proper, considered brewing.
The brewery team has developed a strong reputation for mastering a broad range of styles, from hop-forward ales to crisp lagers and bold stouts. Their beer isn’t about chasing trends — it’s about offering something for everyone, brewed well and always with integrity.
Western Herd’s core range includes a selection of beers that have become staples in fridges and pubs across Ireland — each one bringing its own twist to classic styles.
Seasonal specials, one-off collaborations, and barrel-aged beers round out the range — giving Western Herd the flexibility to explore bold flavours and styles, while always delivering on consistency.
Western Herd Ireland has been recognised within the craft beer scene for its quality and character. Their beers have been well received in competitions and festivals, but more importantly, they’ve earned a loyal following among drinkers and publicans alike. For many craft beer Dublin fans, seeing Western Herd on tap or in the fridge is a sign that quality is assured.
They’ve also made a name for themselves as collaborators — working with other Irish breweries to release exciting new beers that combine different perspectives, regions, and brewing techniques. This spirit of collaboration and community is part of what makes Western Herd such a valued part of the broader craft beer Ireland scene.
Beyond just brewing good beer, Western Herd has helped to put County Clare on the map for craft beer. They’ve shown that world-class brewing doesn’t need to be confined to cities — that it can happen on windswept farms and in rural sheds, as long as the passion and skill are there. They’ve become role models for other rural breweries, proving that with the right team and the right values, great beer can come from anywhere.
Support Irish craft beer by exploring more from the best Irish breweries.
Ready to discover what County Clare tastes like in a glass? 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 regularly stock Western Herd Ireland’s finest — from their ever-popular Siege Pale Ale to small-batch seasonal brews that reflect the changing rhythm of the west.
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 planning a tasting night, stocking your fridge, or sending a gift, Western Herd has a beer that’s sure to impress.
Western Herd Ireland is more than a brewery — it’s a story of place, passion, and people. Brewed on a hill with a view of the Atlantic and rooted in the land it calls home, it offers something truly unique in the world of craft beer Ireland online.
Add some Western Herd to your next order and raise a glass to independent brewing, west coast style.