Water of Life...
Right back to the grind at Baltray from the long week of the Irish Open. I wouldn't say I'm caught up on sleep, and upcoming next week is more tournament preparation for the East of Ireland Tournament here at County Louth. I may need a glass of Ireland's Water of Life.
Uisce Beatha is the old Irish term "Water of Life" which time plus mispronunciation has molded it in to today's word: Whiskey.
My first trip to Dublin led me to the Irish Whiskey Museum. Honestly, I was not in search of it. While wandering the streets I came across the sign so I thought I better have a look!
Upon arrival you walk down a hallway before getting to the stairs (lifts are also provided) seeing barrels of the different whiskeys. Then if you have to wait for the next tour to start, there is a lounge providing food and refreshments. The only drink I enjoyed was a hot chocolate, I promise.
The museum is interactive throughout. One of the knowledgeable staff walks you through the history of Irish whiskey. When purchasing your ticket you chose either a standard or deluxe ticket- this only implies how many tastings you receive at the end.
My Irish whiskey knowledge definitely grew and I learned many interesting facts in each room of the tour. One note is that it cannot be true whiskey until it is aged for three years and one day. And while aging, a fraction of the alcohol evaporates which is necessary to the process... this whiskey vapor ascends to the sky known as the "Angels' Share".
It is also interesting learning how misspelling and mispronunciation over time created the drink name to what we know it as today. Do not be mistaken -- it was not because whiskey was drank like water.
I recommend taking this tour if you have a chance in Dublin. It is not expensive, the gift shop has good deals, and there is a wealth of knowledge to take away from it. Additionally, the taste testings at the end are a plus.
Cheers.
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