It seems that St. Patrick’s Day celebrations are not limited to March 17th anymore. As soon as the calendar reads March 1, the green, white and orange flags and posters take over the inside of bars and restaurants, and pub crawls and parades take over city streets. Being half Irish, I have no problem making St. Paddy’s a month long celebration, because let’s face it; the Irish know how to have a good time. From now until March 17 I want to help spread the word that there are other festive Irish drinks out there beside green beer (although I do have to admit that I have had my fair share of green colored concoctions).

Most St. Paddy’s parades and pub crawls start during the morning hours or early afternoon, so drinks incorporating coffee or coffee flavors are always a great choice for the first cocktail of the day. With the coffee theme in mind the first St. Patrick’s cocktail to be featured is:

The Irish Coffee Cooler- photo from Pernod Ricard USA Recipe Database

The Irish Coffee Cooler- photo courtesy of the Pernod Ricard USA Recipe Database

Irish Coffee Cooler

  • 1.25 parts Jameson Irish Whiskey
  • 1 part Espresso Syrup
  • 2 parts Half & Half

Shake vigorously and strain into glass with ice.

If (or when) you attend these pub crawls, parties and parades always remember to drink responsibly! St. Patrick’s Day celebrations are always MUCH more enjoyable when celebrated in moderation :)

-KJ