The Ins and Outs of Our Irish Affinity

Irish Whiskey, Coffee, and Cream

The month of March makes everyone’s Irish blood turn green – whether fully Irish or not at all. But behind every warm Irish coffee or shot of Irish whiskey is a history and pride in Irish culture.

What is Irish Whiskey?

Irish Whiskey is first and foremost whiskey that has been brewed and distilled in Ireland. Rules for production date all the way back to 1880, with laws stating that all whiskeys must be aged for a minimum of three years in barrels, In Ireland, of course. The Irish have a proud tradition of using unmalted barley, which means that the barley grain has not sprouted (the malt). Irish Whiskey, known for being exceptionally smooth, is typically described as light and fruity with cereal grain notes and often picks up a whiskey oak and caramel flavor after aging in the barrels. 

What is Irish Coffee?

Although Irish Whiskey dates back to 1880, Irish Coffee can be traced back more recently to 1943. In an airport restaurant in Foynes, Ireland – the destination for Flying boats, celebrities, travelers, and later refugees – a chef named Joe Sheridan created this now iconic drink after a plane was turned back and grounded due to weather. When the passengers deboarded on this particularly stormy night, Sheridan whipped up this warming drink and served it happily to the Americans. One asked, “Is this Brazilian coffee?” to which Joe Sheridan proudly responded, “No, it’s Irish Coffee.” The name has stuck ever since.

What is Irish Cream?

Irish Cream is a fusion of Irish whiskey, vanilla, sweet creamy milk, cocoa, and coffee. It is often found as a creamy liquor or a latte. Because of the coffee infusion, this is a great latte. Later this month we will be sharing how to make one of these beauties in your own kitchen.

Throughout this month, we will be experimenting with some Irish Cream coffees and Irish Whiskey infusions, plus doing some extra brewing (and food pairing) to make all our hearts pump with a creamy oak finish and some extra luck of the Irish.

Stick around.

Sláinte,

Mrs. Brew