By michael vivar
Archeological records indicate Irish whiskey is one of the oldest spirits to be produced in Europe. Around 1000 CE, monks brought the art of distilling perfumes to Ireland from the Mediterranean and soon modified the technique to refine alcohol.
As whiskey production grew, so came taxation, regulation, bootlegging and illicit consumption. In 1988, the Pernod Ricard company consolidated distilleries, streamlined operations and aggressively marketed Irish whiskey.
Since 1990, Irish whiskey has been the fastest growing spirit in the world with exports increasing around 15% year on year. Its unique, smoky flavor makes it an excellent cocktail component. Here are four cocktail recipes that sing out, "Erin go brách."
1 oz Irish whiskey 1 oz vermouth 1 oz bitter liqueur Citrus fruit twist or slice
Combine whiskey, vermouth and bitter liqueur into an ice-filled rocks glass. Stir gently. Garnish with twist or slice of citrus fruit. Orange or grapefruit are recommended.
1 1/2 ounce Irish whiskey 1/4 ounce fresh lemon juice 3 1/2 ounce ginger beer Lemon wheel Mint sprig
Combine whiskey, lemon juice and ginger beer in an ice-filled Collins glass. Stir gently. Garnish with lemon wheel and mint sprig.
2 oz Irish whiskey 1/4 oz orange curacao liqueur 1/4 oz maraschino liqueur 1 dash absinthe 1 dash bitters 1 olive and/or 1 lemon twist
Combine whiskey, orange curacao, maraschino, absinthe and bitters in an ice-filled cocktail mixer. Stir until blended. Strain into a chilled Nick and Nora glass. Garnish with olive and/or lemon twist.
1 oz Irish whiskey 1 oz cognac 1/2 oz Grand Marnier 1/2 oz Benedictine liqueur Orange twist
Combine whiskey, cognac, Grand Marnier and Benedictine in an ice-filled cocktail mixer. Stir until blended. Strain into a coupe glass. Garnish with orange twist.
"The light music of whiskey falling into a glass...an agreeable interlude!" — James Joyce