MSM 1- Main Street Magazine "Blogging It!": 3/7/10

March That’s the Spirit

When Irish Eyes are smiling. In celebration of St. Paddy’s Day, lets have a good look at what makes the Irish jig, smile and laugh…..or just drink!

Guinness Extra Stout - THE most popular Irish dry stout that originated in the brewery of Arthur Guinness (1725–1803) at St. James's Gate, Dublin. Guinness is based on the porter style that originated in London in the early 18th century and is one of the most successful beer brands worldwide. For many years a portion of the drink was aged to give a sharp lactic flavour, although Guinness has refused to confirm whether this still occurs. It is popular with Irish people both in Ireland and abroad and, in spite of a decline in consumption over recent years, is the best-selling alcoholic drink of all time in

Ireland

. Blackish brown colour; rich roasted grains and bitter chocolate aromas and flavours; full-bodied with a pleasant bitter finish. The thick creamy head is the result of the beer being mixed with nitrogen when being poured. Great with mussels or rich hearty foods and stews like the classic Irish Steak and Kidney Pies. Let’s all raise a glass to Alec Guiness!

Jameson 18 Year Old Whiskey -Jameson combines malted barley with unmalted or "green" barley. The most famous component within Jameson is the legendary "Pure Pot Still" component unique to Irish whiskey distilling tradition.

The company was established in 1780 when John Jameson established the Bow Street Distillery in Dublin. Originally one of the six main Dublin Whiskeys, Jameson is now distilled in Cork, although vatting still takes place in Dublin. Jameson is by far the best selling Irish whiskey in the world, as it has been internationally since the early 1800s when John Jameson along with his son (also named John) was producing over a million gallons annually. Golden honey colour; sweet oak and spun sugar aromas; rich wood flavours with a warm spice finish. This nectar of the Irish Gods is best on its own after a meal or shared with great friends. I like it neat in a proper whiskey vessel and a great cigar.

Bailey’s Irish Cream - Baileys Irish Cream was created by Gilbeys of Ireland as it searched for something to introduce to the international market. The process of finding a product began in 1971 and it was introduced in 1974 as the first Irish Cream on the market. As the first it pretty much has set the standard. It velvety creamy texture has become a favourite since it’s introduction. Coffee & cream colour; aromas of fresh coffee, hazelnut and chocolate; sweet, creamy and thick, with flavours of lightly toasted nut, white chocolate and vanilla; flavours well balanced by a smooth whisky note for clean, lingering finish.It is great served over some rocks, in coffee or part of a libation….think B52.I like it best in a coffee on those holiday mornings when time stands still.

Bulmers Original Vintage Cider is a brand of cider produced in Ireland. Its History dates back to 1935 in Clonmel, County Tipperary where William Magner purchased an orchard and started pressing apples. Today Bulmers is available internationally. Golden straw yellow colour with fine carbonation; aromas and flavours of pear and sweet apple fruit with hints of nutmeg and spice; dryish, medium bodied, with a srefreshing crisp and clean finish. It is great chilled straight out of the cooler on a hot summer day. Try serving with pork of any kind off the grille. This is a great update from a beer.

Remember the 17^th of March and make it special Irish celebration. A toast – “May neighbours respect you, trouble neglect you, the angels protect you, and heaven accept you!”

Enjoy in moderation, share with great friends and drink responsibly.

Written By: Clare Jackson

As seen in the March issue of Main Street Magazine

Canadian ISSN:1920-4299