A LEGACY
OF CRAFT
A CORK
ORIGINAL
BREATHING NEW LIFE INTO
CORK’S INDUSTRIAL LANDMARKS
– Repurposing the historic Ford factory
From 1917 to 1987, the factory of Henry Ford & Sons was the industrial hub of Cork City, manufacturing motor vehicles on the banks of the River Lee as one of Cork’s largest employers.
An important cultural landmark that has lain dormant and deteriorirating for decades, Rebel City Distillery has chosen this historic space for its home, drawing on the innovations of the past to inspire the creations of the future.
THE ORIGINAL
FORD FACTORY
ALCHEMY
& ARTISTRY
OUR MASTER DISTILLER
– Robert Barrett
Robert Barrett is a biochemist turned fine spirits expert with more than a decade of experience in the art of crafting and distilling premium spirits. Robert holds an MSc in Brewing & Distilling from the Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh, which counts many stalwarts of the craft drinks industry among its alumni. Robert has spent several years honing his expertise in Ireland and Canada with a number of renowned distilleries and drinks businesses.
INSPIRATION &
COLLABORATION
– The Founders
Robert combined this wealth of industry experience to set-up his own boutique distillery alongside his wife, Bhagya and father, Brendan, in 2020.
Robert’s wife Bhagya hails from Kerala, India. An IT Program Manager by trade , Bhagya’s expansive career has seen her work in the large cities of Chennai and Madrid before her move west to Ireland in 2013. Bhagya holds an MBA in Project Management plus her diverse experience of cultures has provided Bhagya with a worldly, eclectic perspective and her own cultural identity inspiring the unique flavours and personality of Maharani Gin.
Robert’s father Brendan, with an extensive career in engineering and construction, mentored Robert in the development of the business and in the refurbishment and redevelopment of the distillery building.