Irish Whiskey Ginger

I can’t resist posting a St. Patrick’s Day-related drink in March. Whether we like it or not, this holiday is tied with spirits. This drink is both easy to make and not as alcohol-forward as other options you see at this time of year. Since there are only two ingredients – three if you count the lime garnish – it’s imperative that they be high quality.

The only Irish whiskey you will find in our house is Jameson. John Jameson was originally from Scotland but he founded his distillery in Dublin, Ireland, in 1780. It was one of the six main Dublin distilleries. It is now produced in County Cork, Ireland and is by far the best selling Irish whiskey in the world. Learn more about the history of Irish whiskey in Forbes’ Dublin’s Irish Whiskey Museum: Uncovering The History of An Irish Icon.

When it comes to high quality ginger ale, there are a few options. Growing up all we knew of was Canada Dry and Schweppes either for ginger ale or tonic. Sure they are still around, but not in our bar. As Fever Tree says “if 3/4 of your drink is the mixer, mix with the best,” so why not use a good mixer. It makes all the difference. I recommend both Fever Tree and Q’s ginger ale for this cocktail and anything else that calls for ginger ale. Only have ginger beer on hand? Try a Dublin Mule instead.

Once you have your Irish whiskey and ginger ale in hand, add ice to a nice tall (such as a highball) glass, pour in your liquids and garnish with a lime wheel. This drink is quite refreshing. Don’t be surprised if you want a second one.