The first thing you must know about Irish whiskey is how to spell it. At one point, all types of whiskies were spelt ‘whisky’, however, the Irish saw it fit to alter the spelling of their own variety to ‘whiskey’ so as to differentiate between that from other countries which they saw to be of an inferior quality. Just from this, it doesn’t take too much thought to realise just how seriously the Irish take their drink.
There are quite a few different varieties of Irish whiskey. Single malt is made from 100% malted barley and distilled in a pot still. On the other hand, grain whiskey is made from grains and distilled in a column still. The difference between grain whiskey and single malt can be quite clearly tasted as grain whiskey is considerably more light and has a more neutral flavour. Pure pot still whiskey is a uniquely Irish variety and is made of 100% barley that is mixed malted as well as unmalted before being distilled in a pot still. The unmalted barley gives pure pot whiskey its distinctive Irish spicy quality and it is this unique feature that whiskey connoisseurs fall in love with.
Believed to be one of the earliest distilled beverages in Europe, Irish whiskey traces its roots back to the 12th Century. The Old Bushmills Distillery claims to be the oldest licensed distillery in the world after gaining its licence from James I in 1608. Whatever the case may be, Irish whiskey has a rich heritage but as most drinkers will attest, all that is quite irrelevant. What really matters is that Irish whiskey can not only be effectively used to toast a cracking good trip to Dublin, you can also take some back home with you and upon opening the bottle, you’ll be able to return to Dublin whenever you have a mind to.
The Stag’s Head. This pub, sitting on Dame Court has been described as a veritable shrine to the art of drink. This Victorian bar, dating back quite a few centuries has dark oak whiskey casks buried into walls, setting the scene for a shot of whiskey. Live tradition music from Thursday to Sunday. Tel - +353 (0) 1 6793701 or visit our website for more information www.thestagshead.ie
