This Week

• Spotlight On - Irish Whiskey

• Trivia Question

• Cocktail Corner - The Ginger Sour

• Trivia Answer

Spotlight On - Irish Whiskey

Hey there, whiskey lovers! This week we're diving into the world of Irish whiskey. Known for its smooth and mellow character, Irish whiskey has a rich history and a unique taste that sets it apart. Irish whiskey has one of the oldest distilling traditions around, going back to the 12th century.

It all started with monks who mastered the art of distillation. Over the centuries, Irish whiskey has faced its share of ups and downs, but today it's back in full swing and more popular than ever.

So, what makes Irish whiskey special? Here are some key characteristics that define it.

• Triple Distillation: This process makes the whiskey super smooth and light.

• Cask Aging: Often aged in bourbon barrels and sherry casks among others, giving it a complex flavor.

• Barley: Both malted and unmalted barley are used, which creates a  distinctive taste.

Let's talk about some notable favorites:

• Jameson Irish Whiskey: A global bestseller, it's perfectly balanced with hints of vanilla, spice, and sherry. ALWAYS on our shelf.

• Redbreast 12-Year-Old: A rich and full-bodied single pot still whiskey with notes of fruit, nuts, and spices.

• Teeling Small Batch: A blend aged in rum casks, offering a sweet, smooth finish with tropical fruit notes.

• Bushmills Original: From the oldest licensed distillery in the world, it's light, fruity, and oh-so-smooth.

Irish whiskey is having a moment right now. New distilleries and creative expressions are popping up everywhere. From unique cask finishes to the revival of single pot still whiskey, there's a lot to explore and enjoy.

When you're nosing and sipping, here’s what you might notice:

• Aroma: Floral, fruity, and slightly sweet with hints of vanilla and honey.

• Taste: Smooth and light, often with flavors of toasted wood, caramel, and spice.

• Finish: Clean, crisp, and lingering, with a warm, inviting aftertaste.

Irish whiskey is more popular than ever and for good reason. Its rich history, smooth character, and innovative spirit make it a must-try for anyone who loves a good dram. So grab a bottle and dive in. and here’s to Ireland and the Irish people. Sláinte!

Cocktail Corner
The Whiskey Ginger Sour

The refreshing Sea Breeze pays homage to the maritime character and rich flavors of Campbeltown.

Ingredients

• 2 oz whiskey (your choice)

• 1 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice

• 1 oz ginger syrup

• 1/2 oz simple syrup

• 1 egg white

• Ice cubes

• Lemon twist and mint sprig for garnish

Let’s make it!

1. Dry Shake: Add the whiskey, lemon juice, ginger syrup, simple syrup, and egg white to a shaker without ice. Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds to create a frothy texture.

2. Shake with Ice: Add ice cubes to the shaker and shake again until well chilled.

3. Strain: Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice.

4. Garnish: Garnish with a lemon twist and a sprig of mint.

Thanks for visiting Ireland with us. If you need to reach us, have feedback, or have a topic you would like to see, please let us know at [email protected]