My favorite beers are all strongly attached to memories of the places where I discovered them. Abita Amber, from my four years living in New Orleans, will always hold a special place in my heart. It has remained a constant in my life, and Jackson's nightlife offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy this excellent brew. However, during a three-week visit to Ireland in 2004, I had a fling with another beer: Smithwick's.
Smithwick's has everything I want in a beer. Its rich red appearance, illuminated by the low bar light, glows in a pint glass. Its taste, not too bitter, drinks the smoothest of any beer I've tasted. Readily available across Ireland, a cold Smithwick's was the perfect way to finish off a full day of driving and sightseeing. Smithwick's also holds the distinction of being the first beer I was able to enjoy with my younger brothers, thanks to Ireland's liberal drinking age.
I instantly fell in love with Ireland during my family's vacation there. The boisterous, friendly people, the vivid traditions, the misty climate and the palpable sense of history all created a wonderful atmosphere. I closely associate Smithwick's with all those great memories. Unfortunately, like all good flings, it must end sometime, and I have had a hard time finding a Smithwick's since I returned home from Ireland. Even when I made a subsequent trip to other European countries in late 2005, Smithwick's was nowhere to be found.
The spark was rekindled recently when I was shopping at McDade's—I caught the familiar Smithwick's logo out of the corner of my eye. There, stacked in the middle of the bakery aisle, were six-packs of Smithwick's bottles. I took two packs home and was not disappointed upon opening the first bottle. The smooth, rich, full taste brought back my memories of Ireland, and Smithwick's was back in my life.
The only thing better than Smithwick's in my house is Smithwick's in a bar. Lo and behold, just in time for St. Patrick's Day, Fenian's Irish Pub has begun to serve Smithwick's on tap. Take a chance and familiarize yourself with this beer, if only so that Fenian's continues to serve it for my personal enjoyment. I have a suspicion you'll enjoy it, too.
Previous Comments
- ID
- 84871
- Comment
Cool! I had no idea that Smithwick's was available in this part of the country... Not a bad beer at all.
- Author
- millhouse
- Date
- 2007-03-01T22:21:18-06:00
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