It all started when William’s father, the late Michael O’Callaghan, planted 30 acres of sustainable cider apple orchard's in 1985. He became the first person in Ireland, outside the big three established national distillers to get a licence and so became the first person since the 1770's to reintroduce to Ireland the practice of distilling cider.

A proud Corkman and Irishman with a deep love of his county and country, a pioneering spirit and a passionate man on all things Brandy, Calvados and Cognac, Michael was the first man to grow grapes here in Ireland. He was keen to grow grapes to make an Irish wine. Laterally he planted an apple orchard for the purpose of making cider. He then double distilled that cider to make apple brandy - a product most similar to Calvados.  In 2010 when Michael died, the grape vines were removed, however the apple orchards continue to flourish and thrive and William continues his father's vision and legacy.