From Dublin to Rockaway: An Irish Toast by the Sea

St. Patrick's Day, a global celebration of Irish heritage and culture, takes on a special vibrancy in Rockaway Beach, Queens. This March, the 50th Annual St. Patrick's Day Parade will transform Rockaway Boulevard into a sea of green, with lively music, spirited dance, and heartfelt community gatherings. This cherished tradition honors the deep-rooted Irish-American community who have enriched the cultural landscape of Queens. From lively pubs echoing with traditional music to the coastal charm of Rockaway Beach, the neighborhood bursts with the spirit of the Emerald Isle.

But beyond the parades and festivities, St. Patrick's Day offers a unique opportunity to connect with authentic Irish traditions. And what better way to do that than by raising a glass of traditional Irish whiskey or a festive green cocktail? Whether you're a seasoned connoisseur or simply looking to explore the flavors of Ireland, this celebration is the perfect occasion to discover the rich and diverse world of Irish drinks

Green beer might be the go-to drink for some on St. Patrick’s Day, but let’s be honest—nothing says Irish tradition quite like whiskey. Whether you’re sipping it neat, mixing it into a classic cocktail, or enjoying it with a splash of water, Irish whiskey is the true star of the show.

So, this St. Patrick’s Day, why not raise a glass to something a little more authentic?

Irish whiskey comes in three main styles, each with its own unique charm:

• Single Malt: Smooth, complex, and full of character, often with notes of honey and dried fruits. Imagine wrapping yourself in a warm, woolen Irish sweater—cozy and comforting.
• Single Pot Still: A fiery jig on your taste buds, with flavors dancing between peppery spice and creamy toffee. This style brings a bold, spicy richness to the table.
• Grain Whiskey: Light, refreshing, and full of promise, like a sunny day in spring. This easygoing charmer offers hints of vanilla and sweetness.

Imagine a sip of single malt; it feels like wrapping yourself in a warm, woolen Irish sweater—cozy and comforting. On the other hand, the single pot still is a fiery jig on your taste buds, with flavors dancing between peppery spice and creamy toffee. Then there's the grain whiskey—the Irish equivalent of a sunny day in spring—light, refreshing, and full of promise.

Whether you’re a seasoned whiskey enthusiast or just looking to try something new this St. Patrick’s Day, there’s an Irish whiskey out there waiting to make your celebration unforgettable.

Irish whiskey isn’t just for sipping neat—this versatile spirit shines in cocktails too! Whether you prefer classic, creative, or bold drinks, there’s an Irish whiskey cocktail to suit every palate. Let’s explore a few recipes that are perfect for raising a glass this St. Patrick’s Day.

• Classic Cocktails with an Irish Twist
  
  
  • Irish Coffee
    A warm, comforting classic that’s equal parts pick-me-up and indulgence. Start with freshly brewed coffee, add a shot of Irish whiskey, a touch of brown sugar, and top with lightly whipped cream. Sip slowly and feel the coziness take over.
    
    
  • Emerald Old Fashioned
    This Irish take on a classic Old Fashioned swaps bourbon for Irish whiskey, bringing a lighter, fruitier vibe to the drink. Combine Irish whiskey, a splash of simple syrup, and a few dashes of bitters over ice. Garnish with an orange twist, and you’re good to go.
    
    Tip: For both the Irish Coffee and the Emerald Old Fashioned, John L. Sullivan Triple Distilled Irish Whiskey is an excellent choice. Its smoothness and balanced flavor profile will complement the richness of the coffee and the bright, fruity notes in the Old Fashioned.

For those seeking a premium option, The Dublin Liberties - 'Copper Alley' Irish Whiskey, matured for 10 years, offers added depth and complexity, enhancing your cocktails with a rich, refined flavor profile.

• Creative Concoctions
  
  
  • Dubliner Cocktail
    Equal parts sophistication and fun, this cocktail blends Irish whiskey with dry vermouth, a dash of orange bitters, and a twist of lemon for a smooth, citrusy finish.
    
    
  • The Lough Inn
    This vibrant green cocktail combines Irish whiskey, lime juice, and a splash of green crème de menthe for a refreshing and festive drink. Think minty mojito vibes with an Irish twist!
    
    
  • MacNamara Rose
    Light and floral, this cocktail combines Irish whiskey, elderflower liqueur, lemon juice, and a splash of grenadine. It’s as pretty as it is delicious—perfect for spring celebrations.
    
    Tip: For these creative Irish whiskey cocktails, try John L. Sullivan Triple Distilled Irish Whiskey. Its smooth and well-rounded character enhances each drink, whether it’s the citrusy finish of the Dubliner Cocktail, the minty refreshment of The Lough Inn, or the floral elegance of the MacNamara Rose. This whiskey’s rich flavor profile provides a perfect balance for all three, elevating the experience and making your St. Patrick's Day celebration even more memorable!

• Bold and Boozy
  
  
  • Natterjack Black Manhattan
    For those who like their drinks bold, this Irish whiskey version of a Manhattan is a game-changer. Mix Irish whiskey with sweet vermouth and a splash of coffee liqueur. Garnish with a cherry for a rich, velvety cocktail.
    
    
  • Irish Gold
    A little sweet, a little strong, and all-around delicious. Combine Irish whiskey, peach schnapps, a splash of orange juice, and top it off with ginger ale.
    
    Tip: For Natterjack Black Manhattan, go for something bold and complex like Gortinore Distillers & Co - Natterjack Irish Whiskey. Its rich flavor pairs perfectly with the sweet vermouth and coffee liqueur, giving the drink a deeper, more exciting taste.

While the Irish Gold works best with Glendalough - Double Barrel Irish Whiskey. Its smooth, slightly oaky profile adds just the right amount of depth to the peach schnapps and orange juice, while the ginger ale ties it all together with a refreshing finish. This whiskey really enhances the drink, giving it a sophisticated and flavorful twist.

No matter which cocktail you choose, Irish whiskey brings a unique depth and character to every glass. Sláinte!

This year, why not try something a little more sophisticated than green beer? Wine cocktails are the perfect way to toast the holiday in style, combining vibrant colors, festive flair, and unforgettable flavors. These green creations not only look the part but also offer a wide range of tastes to suit any celebration, from light and refreshing to bold and fruity, bringing the festive hue of Ireland to life in every glass.

• Cucumber Mint Fizz
  This cocktail combines white wine, cucumber slices, fresh mint, and a splash of soda water. It is light, refreshing, and oh-so-green. Try something with crisp acidity and citrus notes, such as a Sauvignon Blanc like Viña Echeverria—Valle Del Maule. Its lively character complements the cucumber and mint, making it the perfect drink for sipping while you watch the parade or relax with friends.
  
  
• Supergreen Wine Smoothie
  Blend green grapes, fresh spinach (yes, spinach!), and a squeeze of lime for a smoothie that’s as delicious as it is festive. Then, add a Sauvignon Blanc like Hei Matau to complement the fresh ingredients. It’s the perfect mix of healthy and indulgent.
  
  
• St. Patrick’s Day Sangria
  For a refreshing and lively St. Patrick's Day Sangria, mix white wine with green apple slices, kiwi, lime wedges, and a splash of melon liqueur. This fruity, crowd-pleasing drink is ideal for a crisp white wine like Giuliano Rosati - Friuli Pinot Grigio. Its light citrus notes and refreshing acidity complement the fresh fruit and balance the sweetness of the melon liqueur, making it the perfect base for your festive sangria. Serve in a big pitcher and let the festivities flow!
  
  
• Shamrock Champagne
  For an elegant toast, add a splash of green crème de menthe to a flute of sparkling wine, such as Barcava Cava Brut. Its crisp bubbles and citrus notes perfectly balance the minty sweetness, creating a festive yet refined drink. Garnish with a fresh mint leaf for a simple, stunning finish.
  
  
• Leprechaun Mimosa
  Add a playful twist to brunch with this bright green cocktail! Mix Prosecco, such as Ca' Del Doge, with orange juice and a dash of blue curaçao for a vibrant and refreshing mimosa. It’s a magical way to kick off your St. Patrick’s Day celebrations!

Elevate your St. Patrick's Day gathering by pairing these festive drinks with complementary appetizers and desserts. Light bites like smoked salmon crostini, cucumber sandwiches, or spinach and feta phyllo bites provide a perfect counterpoint to the vibrant flavors of the cocktails. For a sweet finish, consider green macarons, pistachio gelato, or key lime pie to maintain the festive theme.

This St. Patrick's Day, ditch the green beer and raise a glass of something a little more refined. Whether you're recreating these cocktails at home or seeking inspiration in-store, there's no better time to experiment with the delightful world of wine cocktails.

This St. Patrick’s Day, let the whiskey flow and the green cocktails sparkle as you celebrate with friends, family, and the vibrant Rockaway Beach community. Whether you're trying your hand at these drinks at home or enjoying the lively local scene, there’s no shortage of ways to honor Irish heritage in style.

If you find yourself near Rockaway Beach, don’t forget to swing by Vino by the Sea in Arverne. You’ll find a thoughtfully curated selection of spirits that will elevate your celebration. Who knows—you might just discover the perfect bottle of Irish whiskey to toast the day! Sláinte!