St Patrick’s Day (March 17) is a perfect excuse to enjoy the Irish spirit and dabble in a bit of Gaelic fun. Here are some cocktails to get you in the mood...
MOLLY MALONE MULE: Named after the ballad that has become Dublin’s unofficial anthem, there could be plenty of renditions spanning bars and pubs when revellers start counting down. With a good kick and plenty of cheer, try this simple serve using the aptly named The Dubliner Irish Whiskey (around £24 in supermarkets and off-sales). It’s perfect introduction to Irish whiskey – approachable, warm and smooth.
A blend of single malt and grain whiskies matured in bourbon casks, it’s honey scented with hints of caramel, orchard fruits and a touch of sweet spice.
50ml The Dubliner, juice of a quarter of a lime, ginger beer, lime wedge and a slice of ginger (optional). Add ice to a strong plastic cup. Pour in the whiskey lime juice. Top up with ginger beer and garnish with a sprig of mint, wedge of lime and ginger.
BUSHMILLS SPICED MARMALADE SOUR: With a long history – Bushmills is Ireland’s oldest working distillery – and triple distilled for a light, pure spirit, Bushmills Black Bush Whiskey (around £24, supermarkets) is the front runner of Irish blends with its fruity, spicy, nutty notes, silky smooth palate and long, sweet finish. Made with a high proportion of malt whiskey aged in sherry casks and a small portion of grain whiskey, it can be sipped or mixed.Here’s a tasty cocktail to try at home... 50ml Bushmills Black Bush, 20ml lemon juice, 20ml marmalade, 1ml angostura bitters 2 individual ginger slices, 1 orange. Half fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Add the ingredients, shake vigorously and strain into a rocks glass filled with ice. Garnish with shredded orange zest.
Not really fussed on whiskey? Try a gin that’s brewed near Crossgar in Co Down. Shortcross gin (around £30-35 in off-sales). It has a long finish and uplifting floral aroma reminiscent of lush summer meadows, wild berries and Irish clover. Shortcross will intrigue and excite gin connoisseurs.
If you’re a fan of Irish Cream, try Dundalgan Irish Country Cream (£3.99, Lidl) – it’s a dreamy dairy delight. Fresh and and super-sweet, with very rich caramel/butterscotch notes. Here’s a delicious digestif to ensure a sweet ending... 30ml Dundalgan, 20ml vodka, 25ml cold espresso, 3 coffee beans for garnish. Half fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Add the ingredients and shake vigorously. Strain into a chilled martini glass, garnish with coffee beans.
