It's nearing that day of the year again. When March 17th rolls around, much like Memorial Day is the unofficial start of summer, St. Patrick's Day must be the unofficial start of Spring. So while yes, there is the whole deal with Saint Patrick, Irish pride and all things green, much like Valentines Day is the official day for lovers, the 17th of March has become the official day for drinking. Well let's make it less crass and say it's a day for revelry with a shamrock pinned on the lapel and a pint in hand.
Now I may not be much of a pint-drinker, but if I may reside in the land where pints dwell for a bit, I love a great cocktail. Let's go beyond that with "I am physically and emotionally attracted to a great cocktail and a great whisky." Having recently been introduced to rye whisky, bourbon's lesser sweet cousin, I now find myself in search of delicious varieties to add to my collection. Well chalk it up to the luck of the Irish (even though my family is from Jamaica) for I've been introduced to Tap Rye Sherry Finished 8 Year Old Whisky.
And what a wonderful whisky it is. What makes this whisky special is the way it's fawned over. First off, it's a small batch whisky which means it was produced by mixing the contents of a relatively small number of selected barrels. The result is a distinct flavor that tastes seasoned and matured especially since Tap Rye has been aged for 8 years in white oak barrels which add to the heady rustic profile. Add to that, the finishing touch of Spanish Amontillado Sherry that brings a very subtle sweet nuttiness without being overpoweringly so. So if you're looking for a whisky to add to your St. Patty's Day revelry this year, Tap Rye Sherry Finished 8 Year Old Whisky is a delightful one with a distinct flavor profile to enjoy on the rocks or in a cocktail. Speaking of cocktails, here's a new remix of a familiar classic to enjoy from Jonathan Pogash, The Cocktail Guru:
Cranberry Mint Julep
2 oz. Tap Rye Sherry Finished 8 Year Old Whisky
12-15 Fresh Cranberries
12 Mint leaves
1/4 oz. Agave Nectar
1 pinch of ground cinnamon
In the bottom of a mixing glass muddle the cranberries and mint in the agave and cinnamon. Add the Tap Rye and ice. Shake well. Strain over ice into a highball glass. Garnish with floating cranberries and mint sprig.
Look for it on the top shelf bar line and have your bartender serve it up lovely this Thursday!
Tap Rye Sherry Finished 8 Year Old Whisky is available now at your finer wine and spirits retailers and as always, drink responsibly.
