Irish Cocktails

My Bloody Irish Valentine is the IWSA version of the classic Blood and Sand cocktail. One of the few popular peated whiskey cocktails, the IWSA version replaces Scotch with Irish Whiskey. We also take it one step further by using a peated Irish whiskey finished in a stout beer cask. This combination with the orange and cherry components creates the perfect Valentine's Day cocktail. The original Prohibition era cocktail was created in 1922 and named after the bullfighting movie of same name.  IWSA VERSION: EQUIPMENT IWSA Cocktail Shaker  Coupe Glass INGREDIENTS 3/4 oz Two Stacks Smoke & Mirrors Peated Stout Single...

The Scofflaw is a famous Prohibition era whiskey cocktail created in direct response to the controversial anti-drinking law. Prohibition went into effect on January 17, 1919, making the USA "dry" until its appeal in 1933. Ironically, it has now become trendy for some to participate in "dry" January, not as an ode to Prohibition, but as a" break from holiday over-indulgence. Those who like to go against trend and imbibe in January should gladly enjoy this cocktail for what it represents. Despite its intentions, Prohibition did not eliminate drinking and instead spawned organized crime and speakeasies. Led by anti-saloon league...

The famous Nutcracker ballet is based on a story that takes place on Christmas Eve. Celebrated every year during the Christmas season, the Nutcracker has become a symbol of the year end holidays. The Irish Nutcracker Cocktail is an ideal holiday sipper as it provides a nutty flavor profile along with a citrus kick to help with any day after hangovers. EQUIPMENT IWSA Cocktail Shaker  Old Fashioned Glass INGREDIENTS 1 oz Blended Irish Whiskey (ex-Bourbon cask) 2 oz Amaretto liquor 2 oz Orange Juice Fresh orange zest Ice INSTRUCTIONS Combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice Stir vigorously Pour/Strain into glass with new ice Orange...

The Patriot cocktail is ideally suited for the fall season and particularly the month of November. Originally conceived as a Super Bowl cocktail to honor the New England Patriots, the IWSA thinks this works best during November. In recognition of those who have served in the US military, The Patriot is a refreshing Veteran's Day cocktail. The enjoyment can last straight through the Thanksgiving holiday with flavors of cranberry, maple, and rye to wash down your leftovers. EQUIPMENT IWSA Cocktail Shaker  Old Fashioned Glass INGREDIENTS 2 oz Irish Rye Whiskey 0.5 oz Maple Syrup 1 oz Cranberry Juice 3 dashes Angostura bitters INSTRUCTIONS Combine...

Halloween has its roots from Celtic Ireland (read our prior origin story here). In American culture, Halloween means costumes, candy, and horror stories. One of the most famous horror stories was written by an Irishman. Bram Stoker, born and educated in Dublin, wrote the classic gothic horror novel Dracula in 1897. If looking for a Halloween cocktail, look no further than Dracula's Blood. This scary concoction combines 3 'spirits' with grenadine for blood thirsty effect. EQUIPMENT IWSA Cocktail Shaker  Old Fashioned or Martini Glass INGREDIENTS 1 oz Irish Whiskey 1 oz Dark Rum 1 oz Kahlua 1/2 oz Grenadine INSTRUCTIONS Combine all ingredients in a...