Kim and I were sent a package of samples from Castle Brands, an international importer and marketer of spirits. Some of their brands include Clontarf Whiskey, Jefferson’s small batch bourbon and Gosling’s Rum.  They’re running a contest with a grand prize trip to Ireland. While we are not eligible to enter, we were feeling inspired and decided to develop a couple drink recipes. Enter the Irish to the Core Contest here.  

Castle Brands Samples

The Knappogue Castle 16 Year Single Malt Irish Whiskey with Sherry Finish was super smooth, with a little touch of peet. I wish I had more for sipping, but we used our sample to develop a craft cocktail. The 12 and 14-year whiskeys were nice too. The Sherry finish definitely creates a richness that lingers and warms the tongue. We were also able to sample the Celtic Honey Liqueur and Clontarf 1014 Irish Whiskey, both of which we were able to incorporate in the recipes below.

#031714 SNF Original

INGREDIENTS:

1.5oz Clontarf 1014 Irish Whiskey
1oz Celtic Honey Liqueur
1/2oz St Germain Elderflower Liqueur
1/2oz Fresh Meyer Lemon Juice
2 dashes Bittercube Bolivar Bitters (flavor profile: cassia, chamomile, dried fruits)
Spray of St. George Absinthe Verte

PREPARATION:

Add whiskey, honey liqueur, St Germain, Meyer Lemon  and bitters to a shaker with ice cubes. Shake vigorously, and strain into a coupe. Garnish with a thick slice of lemon peel, squeezing the zest oil over the top of the drink and the rim of the glass.   Spray a mist of absinthe over the top. If you don’t have a small spray bottle, you can rinse your coupe with absinthe and pour the remainder of it out. This is fun for the senses and adds a touch more depth to the cocktail.

SNF “Last Word”

This is a SNF riff on a prohibition era cocktail, the Last Word.  I believe this is the true definition of a “craft” cocktail and I’m addicted to it.

INGREDIENTS:

Equal Parts:

16 Year Knappogue Castle Old Single Malt Irish Whiskey
Fidencio Mezcal
Luxardo Maraschino Liqueur
Fresh Blood Orange Juice

PREPARATION:

Add all ingredients to a shaker with ice cubes. Shake vigorously, and strain into a coupe. Garnish with a slice of blood orange peel, squeezing the zest oil over the top of the drink and the rim of the glass.

Sláinte mhaith!

If you want to see other cocktail recipes from Saturday Night Foodies, go to <CLICK HERE>