Last Friday I swung by my local wine & spirits shop, Bottle Barn, to find inspiration for my next cocktail. Since today is St. Patrick’s Day, I knew I wanted to mix something together using Irish Whiskey. Now I’ve had Jameson and Bushmills whiskey before but when I noticed 2 Gingers (obviously marketed to woman) I couldn’t help but give it a try for today’s post. As I was getting ready to leave a friendly woman, with a hot pink wig on, greeted me and asked me if I had my Irish Whiskey for St. Patrick’s Day…I said yes then noticed she was a rep for 2 Gingers and I showed her the whiskey in my basket. We laughed, she gave me some free swag then I was on my home to mix up some tasty libations.

Friday brought 80 degree weather to Northern California so it was the perfect day to mix up some cocktails. Since it was such a nice day, I wanted to create a drink that showcased the great structure whiskey brings to cocktails but with a light and refreshing twist. The Whiskey Ginger is a great cocktail for even the non-whiskey drinker!

Whiskey Ginger

• 2 ounces 2 Gingers Irish Whiskey
• 1/2 orange, juiced
• 1/2 lime, juiced
• 2 – 3 dashes orange bitters
• Fill with Ginger Ale or Ginger Beer
• Garnish with lime wheel

Combine whiskey, orange juice and lime juice in a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake and strain into a rocks glass filled with ice. Add bitters and fill with ginger ale or ginger beer. Garnish with a lime wheel.

The next cocktail is more complex with a slightly sweet finish and incorporates both Irish whiskey and brandy.

Irish Jack Rose

• 1 ounce 2 Gingers Irish Whiskey
• 1/2 ounce Korbel Brandy
• 1/2 lime, juiced
• 1/2 ounce pomegranate syrup
• Garnish with lime wedge

Combine all ingredients in cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake and strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with a lime wedge.

Happy St. Patrick’s Day! Share with us your favorite St. Patty’s cocktails in the comments below or on twitter at @ApronsStilettos

~Cheers, Crystal