Willy Tindal wearing our Benbaun Irish Linen Shirt off the coast of Donegal.
FRIENDS OF MAGEE 1866 #4
Welcome back to Friends of Magee 1866, our ongoing series celebrating the people who've crossed our path over the years. Like any meaningful relationship, the strongest connections are the ones nurtured over time, and few embody that better than our next guest.
For instalment #4, we're delighted to sit down with Willy Tindal of Tindal Wine Merchants, a man whose passions run deep for the sea, the North West of Ireland, and a great bottle of wine. We caught up with Willy about family gatherings by the coast, the call of Donegal, and why an Irish linen shirt from Magee 1866 has earned a permanent place in his summer wardrobe.
What does friendship mean to you?
Friendship is knowing you can rely on each other when it matters most. It's built on trust, loyalty and being there through both the everyday moments and the important ones.
Tell us about the Magee 1866 linen shirt you're wearing?
Versatility is what stands out. It's a shirt I can wear on the beach, for dinner with friends or while visiting vineyards for work. I spend a lot of time travelling to wine regions with warmer climates, so a breathable linen shirt is ideal. It packs easily, always looks smart and is comfortable throughout the day.
I also appreciate the range of colours and the tailored fit, which suits my frame perfectly. It's one of those pieces that earns its place in your suitcase because it works for so many different occasions.
How did you become involved in Tindal Wine Merchants? Is wine a family business?
Tindal Wine Merchants is an independent family-owned business that was founded in 2004. I'm part of the second generation and joined the business early in its journey.
Wine has always fascinated me because every bottle tells a different story. Climate, geography, history and the people behind each vineyard all influence the finished wine, so there's always something new to learn. It's a career that never stops evolving, which is one of the things I enjoy most.
Travelling to vineyards is a key part of our work. We carefully source wines from producers who care deeply about their land, ensuring healthy soils, thriving biodiversity and sustainable vineyard practices. At its heart, our business is built on long-term relationships with both the families who make the wines and the customers who enjoy them.
What do you value most about Magee 1866?
Magee 1866 shares many of the same values that are important to us as a family business. Quality, craftsmanship and longevity are evident in every piece.
I like clothing that transitions effortlessly between smart and casual occasions, whether I'm at home in Ireland or travelling overseas. There's also something special about wearing an Irish brand with such a rich heritage.
The made-to-measure tailoring service has been particularly valuable. As someone who's tall, finding the right fit can be difficult, but having my measurements stored means I can order a jacket knowing it will fit perfectly every time.
Beyond the clothing itself, I admire Magee's commitment to its local community in Donegal, and the responsibility it shows towards its employees and the future of Irish manufacturing.
What are your plans for summer?
Summer is all about staying in Ireland.
We load the van with camping gear, surfboards and everything the family needs before heading off to explore the North West and South West. Those trips are a chance to slow down and enjoy places that still feel wonderfully untouched.
One of my favourite memories was camping on an uninhabited island off Ireland's west coast. We dived for fresh scallops and cooked them over an open campfire as the sun set. Experiences like that remind you how extraordinary Ireland's coastline really is.
Why does Donegal continue to inspire you?
I grew up in Sligo and spent many childhood holidays in Donegal, so I've always felt a strong connection to the North West.
I've been fortunate enough to travel and surf around the world, yet on the right day, the Atlantic coastline of Donegal rivals anywhere. The beaches are spectacular, the surf is world-class and the scenery is unlike anywhere else.
What keeps drawing me back is the sense of space and authenticity. There are still quiet beaches, hidden coves and remote islands where the power of the North Atlantic has shaped dramatic landscapes and vibrant local communities over generations.
For anyone who loves surfing, outdoor adventure or simply escaping into nature, Donegal remains one of Ireland's most remarkable destinations, and somewhere I'll never tire of returning to.
About Friends of Magee 1866
The Friends of Magee 1866 series shines a light on the people, places, and passions that connect to our story, from Irish linen and Donegal Tweed to the friendships built along the way. Stay tuned for the next instalment.
Shop the look: Explore our Irish Linen Edit and discover the shirts, shorts, and tailoring woven at our mill in Donegal.