One Delightful Summery Day in Kenmare and Killarney

One Delightful Summery Day in Kenmare and Killarney 

Tom Crean Brewery - Maison Gourmet - National Park - The Lake Hotel

Ladies View, Killarney

Highlights: stunning views, strawberry tart, brewery visit

Muckross House Glasshouse

Muckross House
Glasshouse

With a stroke of luck, we landed in the Kingdom of Kerry on a summer’s day in March, a true “pet” day. Just the one day, though, but we were glad we had switched our booking at the Lake Hotel from Thursday to Tuesday as we relaxed on the balcony with a glass (of water - they have cool water stations at each level) and enjoyed the stunning views over the lakes.

Later, at dinner, we would see a small bunch of deer run across the lawn just outside, in the twilight. I think they may have been upset by a jogger coming up behind them. We, too, were a bit upset because the hotel could not fit us in, except at a very late time, for an evening meal in the main dining room, the fine-dining Castlelough. As we heard later, we weren’t the only couple with that particular problem, even though our booking had been DB&B.

At check-in, our reservation was reduced to B&B only, and we agreed to take up the suggestion of dining in the bistro. The regular Bistro menu wasn’t all that inviting on the face of it, so we had some reluctance. However, thanks to a good selection of specials, we went on to enjoy quite a lovely meal there, along with a pint of the local Killarney Brewery lager. 

I finished up with an unusual but delicious version of Bread and Butter pudding, while the Apple Crumble didn't generate the same enthusiasm. The next stop was the bar, the Devil’s Punchbowl, and I eased out with a delicious dram of Writers Tears. Time for bed then, and I slept soundly on one of the most comfortable mattresses ever, the perfect balance between firm and yielding!

The visit began with a halt in Kenmare and a call to the fabulous Maison Gourmet for a snack. They had a full lunch menu going, but we didn't want anything major. There was no resisting the attractive line-up of French-style pastries on display, especially the strawberry tart (above), which proved every bit as good as it looked. Add a fair bit of the French language behind the counter (and the sun outside), and we could have been in a patisserie deep in the Dordogne.

Muckross, light and shade on a "summer" day!

We rolled up the town then to visit the Tom Crean Brewery and the hard-working couple that run it, Aileen Crean O’Brien and Bill Sheppard. They informed us of recent developments, including the good news that their excellent beers are now available in Cork through Matsons (Bandon, Grange, and Youghal) and also O’Donovan’s Off Licence. More on the brewery soon in a beer post!

Tom Crean's in Kenmare

Quite often in Kerry, we have passed the beauty spots without stopping because of mist or rain. This time, we didn't miss anything. One stop was at Molls Gap, not so much to take in the views, which we did, but to do a little shopping in the Avoca shop there. And we were glad to see the fantastic West of Dingle Sea Salt in stock there (as it had been on a previous occasion). Soon, we were at Ladies View, sharing a lay-by with a couple of tour buses. Enjoyed that little halt.

View from Lake Hotel balcony

Still time for 30 or 40 minutes around the gardens at Muckross House. We were a week or two early for their beautiful tulip displays. Soon, we were settling into the hotel and taking in the early evening sun before heading down to dinner. With the quality of the specials and that spectacular walk past by the deer, the evening was a delightful one.

Pics below from dinner in the Lake Hotel Bistro

Starter of Pan Seared Scallops with Annascual Black Pudding, 

Spiced Cauliflower, Parma Ham

Killarney Lager

Pan Fried Fillet of Hake, Vegetable Medley, Saffron Cream, Rosti Potato, Samphire

Our other mains was Roast Chicken Supreme

withTurnip and Carrot, Cajun Wedges, Red Wine Gravy 

Dingle Goat’s Cheese Bon Bons Beetroot, Rocket Pesto Balsamic Glaze,
Garden Herb Salad. 

Ireland Joins European Initiative to Boost Consumer Confidence in EU Food Safety

 press release

Ireland Joins European Initiative to Boost Consumer Confidence in EU Food Safety

 

Nearly 4 in 10 consumers now actively consider food safety when shopping  

  

Ireland has officially launched Safe2Eat, a major EU-wide campaign empowering consumers with science-backed food safety information to make smarter, safer food choices. Led by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), Safe2Eat has expanded from 18 to 23 countries in 2025, with Safefood representing Ireland as part of this growing European initiative. 

 

Now in its fifth year, the Safe2Eat campaign — formerly known as #EUChooseSafeFood — bridges the gap between food science and everyday decisions. The eight-month campaign provides clear, evidence-based guidance to help consumers navigate key food safety concerns — from storage and preparation to nutrition and ingredient transparency.  

  

Speaking about the campaign, Dr Gary A Kearney, Chief Executive Safefood said: “Partnering with EFSA on Safe2Eat is a major step in protecting public health. Safe food practices are the foundation of well-being, and this campaign ensures Irish consumers have even more knowledge about how to store, prepare, and purchase food safely. At Safefood, we’re proud to support this European initiative in Ireland and help make food safety second nature for consumers.”  

  

A recent Ipsos survey commissioned by EFSA underscores the shift in consumer behaviour, revealing that 40% of those who interacted with Safe2Eat now actively consider food safety when purchasing food — compared to just 35% of the general population. The study also highlights the growing interest in minimally processed foods, as well as a gradual decline in cost as the primary deciding factor.  

  

EFSA’s Executive Director, Dr Bernhard Url added: “As European consumers navigate a complex food landscape; it is essential that they feel empowered to make informed choices. The Safe2Eat campaign bridges the gap between food safety science and everyday decisions, providing clear and practical information that supports consumer confidence. With the expansion to even more countries in 2025, we are taking another step towards ensuring that every European citizen has access to reliable, science-based food safety guidance.”  

  

There are several ways for individuals and organisations to get involved in the Safe2Eat campaign. Free campaign materials are available in multiple EU languages, making it easy to share important food safety messages. Consumers can also visit the campaign’s website to access expert-backed food safety tips and practical advice. Additionally, by using the official hashtag #Safe2EatEU, people can help spread awareness about the science behind safe food and encourage informed food choices across Europe.  

Visit the Safe2Eat campaign at efsa.europa.eu/en/safe2eat for more information.   

Fota Wildlife Park. End-of-March Visit

Fota Wildlife Park. 

End-of-March Visit

Pics: 31.03.2025

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I'd love to be out there!

Hay Rhino

Peacock Gold

Mara

Lemur lunch

Lemur Lift

Baby 'roo

Bye for now, shorty.

Ireland's Fercullen 15, from The Powerscourt Distillery. Crowned World's Best Grain at World Whiskies Awards

The Whiskey Wire

(other spirits may appear!)

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press release

Ireland's Fercullen 15, from The Powerscourt Distillery, 

Crowned World's Best Grain at World Whiskies Awards

Powerscourt Distillery is delighted to announce a major achievement: its Fercullen 15 Single Grain Whiskey was awarded the title of World’s Best Grain at the World Whiskies Awards Global final in London last night, March 26 ^th 2025.

This win represents a significant milestone for Powerscourt Distillery. Having secured the title of Ireland’s Best Grain Whiskey in Dublin in February this year, Fercullen 15 progressed to the global stage, competing against the best regional grain whiskies from around the world. To emerge victorious and claim the World’s Best Grain title is a powerful recognition of the exceptional quality and craftsmanship invested in Fercullen.

This prestigious award is more than just an accolade; it is global acknowledgement of the dedication, skill, and unwavering commitment to excellence demonstrated by everyone at Powerscourt Distillery. The Fercullen 15 Year Old Single Grain Whiskey, celebrated for its distinctive flavour, remarkable smoothness, and outstanding quality, now stands as the world’s best – a testament to the distillery's mastery. This win elevates Fercullen and Powerscourt Distillery to a leading position in the whiskey industry, thus confirming the Wicklow-based Distillery amongst the finest in the world.

Master Distiller Paul Corbett expressed his pride in the achievement, stating, "Winning this award is a significant milestone for Fercullen. It reflects our commitment to excellence and our passion for producing world-class whiskey. We are honoured to be recognised on such a prestigious platform and are excited to continue sharing our exceptional whiskey with the world."

 

Head of Brand and recent Hall of Fame inductee, John Cashman added, “Grain whiskey is an often-underrated style of Irish whiskey, its softer notes and general sweet tones appeal to a wide audience and lends itself to finishing in exceptional casks like the Madeira we selected for this release. We are thrilled to be named Best in the World”.

         

The World Whiskies Awards is renowned for its rigorous judging process, which includes blind tastings by a panel of industry experts. This award highlights Fercullen's dedication to maintaining the highest standards in whiskey production and our unwavering commitment to quality.

 

For more information about Powerscourt Distillery and its award-winning whiskeys, visit www.powerscourtdistillery.com

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press release

JAMESON IRISH WHISKEY UNVEILS NEW JAMESON TRIPLE TRIPLE MARSALA CASK EDITION

Triple distilled and triple cask matured, the world’s most awarded whiskey* introduces a Sicilian twist to the Jameson family, exclusive to Global Travel Retail

Jameson, the world’s most awarded* and bestselling Irish whiskey, is delighted to introduce its latest travel retail exclusive to the family, Jameson Triple Triple Marsala Cask Edition. 

Offering a fresh take on the classic Jameson style, this limited release features hand-selected Marsala casks from Trapani, Sicily for the first time in a Jameson expression, resulting in a whiskey so smooth that it must be a Jameson.  

Building on the success of the Jameson Triple Triple range – including Málaga Cask Edition and the more recent Chestnut Cask Edition – this new, limited-release is matured in a combination of Bourbon barrels, Oloroso Sherry casks, and now Marsala casks, delivering a rich depth of flavour and an extra drop of smoothness, perfect for whiskey-curious travellers.

Crafted from American white oak, known for its contribution of sweet vanilla and clove spice notes, these Marsala casks are hand-selected from the renowned Florio Winery in Sicily. They are then seasoned with Marsala wine for two to three years, absorbing rich flavours of apricot, toffee apple, walnut and woodland spices. These freshly emptied casks are then transported to Midleton Distillery in County Cork, Ireland, where they meet Jameson's triple-distilled whiskey, adding a layer of exciting complexity to the final result.

Master Distiller Kevin O’Gorman comments: “This limited release of Jameson Triple Triple Marsala Cask Edition is a wonderful example of how we continue to innovate while staying true to our tradition of triple distillation and meticulous cask selection at Midleton Distillery. This expression provides a unique opportunity to showcase the rich flavour contribution from these exceptional casks within the Jameson family, and we are excited for everyone to try it.”

This latest addition to the Jameson family highlights the brand’s dedication to craftsmanship while offering travellers a unique connection to Sicily. Bringing a fresh perspective to Jameson’s triple cask maturation process with its rich history and distinct character, Jameson Triple Triple Marsala Cask Edition will be available for a limited time, making it the perfect excuse to book that new adventure. 

Bottled at 40% ABV, Jameson Triple Triple Marsala Cask Edition is available exclusively in global travel retail, with an RRP of $45.50 / €39.50 / £37.

Explore online here:  Midleton Distillery Collection

Tasting notes:

Nose: Fresh and vibrant fruit led aromas including dried apricot, banana, and kiwi while woodland spices and hints of walnut add further depth and flavour, complementing the sweet vanilla and caramelised brown sugar.

Taste: Rich and full with notes of toffee apple, vanilla, and chocolate dipped walnuts, accompanied by notes of exotic fruits with a subtle hint of ginger spice.  The oak’s soft tannins work in balance with the fruits and spices, creating a wonderfully balanced whiskey.

Finish:  Lasting finish in which the fruits and oak are the first to fade, allowing the gentle spices linger until the very end.

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Redbreast 12 Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey, 40% ABV

Sip into the heritage of Irish whiskey

Redbreast 12, a delightful and much praised Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey, has complex spicy and fruity aromas with toasted wood notes evident. On the palate, it is fully flavoured and complex, silky smooth with a harmonious balance of spicy, fruity, sherry and toasted notes. And those flavours linger long in the aftertaste. Its time spent maturing in Spanish oak Oloroso sherry butts has enhanced its colour, aromatics and flavours.

A terrific sipping whiskey, it’s a popular choice for whiskey enthusiasts and is considered one of the best examples of the Irish pot still tradition, and, as you’d expect, it is widely available. My glass in The Canopy (Castlemartyr Resort) cost €12.50. Midleton Distillery sells it for €70.00 per 700 ml bottle, and it is also available online.

By the way, did you know that the tour of Midleton Dfistillery (where Redbreast is produced) has been much revamped in recent years. So if you’d like to taste Redbreast and other famous whiskeys at source, you can get all the info you need here. 

Very Highly Recommended. 

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Killowen Rum & Raisin Single Malt Irish Whiskey 55% ABV

“A stellar release from Killowen Distillery” (Celtic Whiskey)

Sourced Bradleys Hip Flask Club. Generally available £56 (€67.45).

Using inputs from sunny Jerez in Spain and the equally sunny islands of the Caribean, the little Killowen distillery worked their acknowledged mastery (with their renowned worm tub condensers doing its business, as always) in a less than sunny island to produce this Rum and Raisin, a minor masterpiece of Irish Whiskey. 

The casks included were Bourbon for ageing, the finish applied in Dark Rum Casks and PX sherry casks. The influential malt, sourced from the neighbouring GND County Louth,  engaged superbly with Sherry flavours of dried fruits and raisins and the tropical elements of the rum.

Those dried fruits and the rum notes get to star in a smooth, velvety texture. It is quite complex in terms of aromas and flavours. It can be enjoyed neat - add a few (yes, a few) drops of water, as ABV is 55%. Mixologists seeking to add something different to their creations have cottoned on to it, and you'll find it in a variety of serves.

All this from what has been called Ireland’s smallest distillery, one that you may visit in its scenic location in the Mourne Mountains. Read more here.   Brendan Carty of Killowen Distillery will be in Cork next month for the Cork Whiskey Festival. Read more, including tickets, here. 

Very Highly Recommended

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Chivas Regal Extra 13 Sherry Cask Selection

40% ABV

Chivas Regal Extra 13 Sherry Cask Selection is a premium Scotch whisky that is known for its rich and complex flavour profile. Colour, aroma, and flavour have been enhanced by its time in Oloroso sherry casks, and its character has improved with depth and sweetness.

In the mouth, you sense notes of dried fruits, nuts, and spices, the influence of sherry casks giving toffee, butterscotch, and dark chocolate. The finish is smooth and lingering, with a warm sweetness that invites additional sips. There are also notes of the traditional peat but nothing extreme. This is a very balanced whiskey, very drinkable indeed.

Chivas Regal pairs well with various mixers, but it can also be enjoyed neat. For a classic option, consider adding a splash of water or serving it on the rocks to fully appreciate its flavours. Alternatively, you can experiment with ginger ale or soda water. Another delightful way to enjoy Chivas Regal is in a classic cocktail like The Godfather, especially if crafted with Joe’s Amaretto.

While it's excellent neat or on the rocks, it can also be included in cocktails that benefit from its rich flavours. I recently enjoyed it in a Godfather cocktail with Joe’s Amaretto.

Back in the 19th century, John and James Chivas were always pushing the boundaries of what was expected. In their Aberdeen Emporium, they imported different spirits and spices from across the globe, fascinated by a world of flavour. This Chivas Extra 13 Sherry Cask Selection is a rich yet sweet whisky that adds a deeper layer of flavour to the luxurious Chivas house style, continuing the spirit of that 19th-century Emporium. Please note that this Sherry Cask is just one of a portfolio of differently finished Chivas 13.

Highly Recommended

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Mitchell’s Green Spot Leoville Barton Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey 46% ABV

A special edition that sees Green Spot hit greater heights

Widely available at about €75.00 per bottle

(Bought mine flask full via Bradley's Hip Flask club) 

A unique limited release that won gold in the Irish Whiskey Masters in 2021, 2022, and 2023! Green Spot Chateau Léoville Barton was initially matured in traditional sherry and bourbon casks and then finished in the Bordeaux winery’s oak casks, adding an exciting new dimension to this Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey already renowned for its excellent quality. 

Indeed, that oak influence, while never overly bearing, may be noted in the aromas, flavours and finish of this marvellous whiskey. The basic Green Spot itself is a favourite here, and this edition takes it to a stellar level.

In June 2015, the Château partnered with Irish Distillers Midleton Distillery and Dublin-based Wine and Whiskey Merchants Mitchell and Son to create a Bordeaux wine finished expression of the iconic Green Spot Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey. 

Mitchells are part of Irish whiskey history while and the Château Léoville-Barton has made its mark on the Bordeaux wine story. Their 2015 collaboration here has been hugely successful with this edition winning World’s Best Single Pot Still Whiskey (at the World Whiskies Awards).  Today, the Château is managed by Anthony and Lilian Barton, descendants of the pioneering ‘Wine Geese’ winemaker Thomas Barton, who established his legacy in 1725.

Very Highly Recommended

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BLACKWATER IRISH WHISKY ‘THE FULL IRISH’ 48.5% alc/vol, 50cl bottle, Limited Edition. €55.00

Head Distiller John Wilcox says: ‘refined, complex and bold.’

“This blend contains every permissible grain (barley, malt, wheat, oat, rye and maize), and it shows in the aromas and in the mouth, a serial (excuse the pin) and beautiful contact with the senses. And this Blackwater blend also looks well, in its shiny foxy robe. With the elevated ABV, a drop or two of water will work its usual magic.

No wonder it has been collecting accolades since its launch in 2024.

Quite possibly one of the finest blended Irish whiskeys I’ve ever been lucky enough to try. …A bold and rather brilliant release from the Blackwater Team.’ Business Post

‘One of the most interesting whiskeys unveiled at Whiskey Live 2024. This release … showcases the 3 styles of Irish whiskey .…’ Irish Whiskey Magazine

Blackwater themselves say: This blend rocks. What’s in the bottle? 45% Blackwater produced single malt, 45% Blackwater produced pot still (both five years old) and 10% seven-year-old grain whiskies, finished in stout casks from local Hopfully Brewing Company.”

As with all Blackwater products, it’s not chill-filtered or coloured. Aged in bourbon barrels before finishing in the Hopfully casks. It is a limited edition.

Very Highly Recommended

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