Beer, Wine and Spirits Food & Drink

St. Patrick’s Day and all things Irish

Brian Preston | The Travelling Sommelier | brianpreston@hotmail.com

What can we look forward to in March this year? Well, let's see, there is International Women’s Day on 8 March; setting the clocks forward for Daylight Savings time on 12 March; St. Patrick's Day on 17 March; the Full Moon on 25 March. So what kinds of alcoholic beverages can we celebrate with as we start to think about Spring? How about the Irish theme? You could enjoy a nice Guinness draught stout coming in at 4.2%abv with a hearty Irish stew as the weather is still cold enough and they make a great match. This is a go-to Irish traditional meal dating back centuries known for its distinct and velvety character; mahogany brown in colour with a creamy white head and loaded with aromas of coffee, toasted malt and hops. Full and bold on the palate with a creamy texture and the same rich flavours, a delicate touch of bitterness adds a pleasing balance to the finish. Or you could try one of my favourites, Kilkenny Traditional Cream Ale with a bright amber colour; soft grain and malt aromas; medium-body; rich mouth-coating malt flavour and touch of bitter hops on the finish; coming in at 4.3%abv. For red ale fans there is Smithwick's Ale brewed since 1710 coming in at 4.5%abv with sweet/malty, caramel flavours, along with palate refreshing carbonation and light bitter hops tones on the finish. Perfect with bbq, spicy foods or pub fare; the well-seasoned, bold, smoky flavours of these dishes call for the contrasting malty tones and palate-cleansing ability of this beer.

You could enjoy an Irish whiskey by the two major distillers - Jameson and