On the Craft Trail with Dungarvan Brewing, Sullivan's and Wicklow Wolf

On the Craft Trail with Dungarvan Brewing, Sullivan's and Wicklow Wolf

Dungarvan Black Rock Irish Stout, 4.3% ABV

stout the way it was meant to be

Black Rock Stout, made by Dungarvan Brewing since 2010, is classically dry. That is the first impression from the opening sip. It is also full-flavoured and smooth, with background vanilla notes, and the finish is long and warming. The roasted malt is also prominent in the aromas of this black beer with a tanned head. 

Back in 2014, at a tour of the brewery,  the roasted malt went very well indeed with the dark chocolate that was handed around (during a tour of the brewery), chocolate that was quickly scoffed. The current label recommends pairing Blackrock with robust meat dishes or on its own.

There was quite an unusual match for it at the 2019 West Waterford Food Festival when Lily Ramirez and Anthony O’Toole paired it with Tequila, Chipotle and Dominican Chocolate Torte, with sweet créma, pomegranate, and Crystallised Hibiscus dust on the side. You don’t get that every day!

Dungarvan beers are bottle conditioned and may contain yeast sediment. Store upright and pour carefully, not that the sediment will do any harm!

And, finally, a tip from the brewers: ideally, this stout should be served in the traditional south-eastern way, which is ‘off the shelf’ — i.e. at room temperature.

(Check out our expanding list of our 2025 favourite beers here)

Wicklow Wolf Wildfire Hoppy Red Ale, 4.6% ABV, 440 ml can 

a modern hoppy red ale

Wicklow Wolf's Wildfire Hoppy Red Ale offers a modern twist on a classic style, and it truly delivers.

Poured into the glass, it showcases a traditional deep ruby-red colour that evokes thoughts of cosy evenings spent by the bar's warm fire. The off-white head, while not overly frothy, lingers nicely. The aroma presents a delightful blend of malt and chocolate, providing a familiar sense of comfort. 

On the palate, the initial sweetness from the malt transitions to a fruity burst brought to the party by the single hop Sorachi Ace. The finish is smooth and satisfying, balancing the sweetness with a lingering, gentle bitterness that makes you crave another sip. Wildfire expertly travels the line between tradition and innovation and does so beautifully.

Geek Bits

Hops - Sorachi Ace

Malts - Pale, Cara Ruby, Melano, Oats, Roasted, Crystal Rye

Sullivan’s Na Boii Pilsner 4.7% ABV, Supervalu

 

Introducing you to our latest creation….Na Boii, a Pilsner.

Originating in the Bohemian city of Plzň, the unique water and hops famously lent brightness and crispness to the style now known worldwide.

Na Boii may be Sullivan’s first lager in the modern era, yet over 150 years ago, Sullivan’s also brewed a lager as a complement to the range of ales at the time.

And where did that name come from? None of the modern “bhoys” but wouldn’t ya know it, there are ties to the ancient Celts. The name Bohemia traces its etymology to that of the Boii, a Celtic Tribe that flourished in the region ages ago.

 

Sullivan’s say: We hope you enjoy our homage to Bohemia and the refreshing lager beer style that is Pilsner. Well, I enjoyed it very much indeed. From its clean golden colour to its super refreshing finish. Very Highly Recommended

Maybe you don't know about it, but Sullivan’s have a tap room in Kilkenny. They combine internationally award-winning craft beer with a delicious menu available seven days a week, containing items such as handmade pizza made on-site, burgers, nachos, wings and more! Details, including location and bookings here.

Poggiotondo Vermentino Toscana. Try with Chicken Fajitas and Vegetarian Lasange.

Poggiotondo Vermentino Toscana (IGT) 2021, 12.5% ABV

RRP €19.95 - Wineonline

Brigid gives the nod to Chicken Fajitas and Vegetarian Lasange as pairings for this Tuscan Vermentino.

 

This organic Vermentino from Tuscany comes in a bright straw-yellow colour. In the aromas, you’ll pick up delicate but definite floral scents. On the palate, there are apple, citrus and peach flavours, and a balancing acidity before a pleasing, refreshing finish. Highly Recommended.

Poggiotondo is dedicated to making authentic, pure expressions of indigenous Tuscan grapes, including Sangiovese, Canaiolo, Colorino and Trebbiano. The estate’s vineyards have been certified organic since 2014. The winery utilises concrete tanks and untoasted oak casks to preserve their wines' fruit, vitality and texture.

Tuscany is not well known for its Vermentino. Sardinia is the place to go for the best, and indeed, importers Liberty Wine have excellent examples from Sardinia (Atzei Saragat Isola Dei Nuraghi  ) and also a superb one from Corsica (Domaine Vico Le Bois Du Cerf Vermentinu).

I dipped into “The Home Sommelier” by Mayo woman Brigid O’Hora to read her suggested pairings for this grape. Chicken Fajitas and Vegetarian Lasange get the nod in her recently published book.

Connemara can capture your heart! A quick guide to this wonderful part of the country (based on a 3-day trip in 2024.)

Connemara can capture your heart! A quick guide to this wonderful part of the country (based on a 3-day trip in 2024.)

Super meals at the Misunderstood Heron food truck near Killary Fjord

Our base was the charming Foyle's Hotel in Clifden. We explored Connemara's rugged beauty, including the Connemara Smokehouse (where we enjoyed a tasting plate of their smoked fish), the stunning Killary Fjord, and the picturesque Lough Inagh. 

Smokehouse

Evenings were spent enjoying Clifden's culinary scene, including Oifig An Fish for excellent mussels and fish and chips and Lamplight for a delectable tapas experience with an extensive wine list. 

The Tea House at Kylemore Abbey

Coyle's in Clifden.

We also hiked in Connemara National Park, visited the magnificent Kylemore Abbey and its walled gardens, and saw the Assleagh Falls in County Mayo. 

Tapas at Limelight

Thermidor at Moran's

Back in Clifden, we enjoyed meals at the Marconi Restaurant in Foyle's Hotel and Mullarkey's Bar for drinks and music.  We also visited Coyles, Clifden's new food and coffee shop, showcasing local produce and treats. Foyle's Hotel itself blends Victorian heritage with modern comforts, offering a local experience and a lively bar. Lamplight offers a diverse tapas menu and a carefully curated wine selection, creating a memorable dining experience.

Celebrity chefs at Foyle's

A pint of 
craft at an Oifig!

On the journey up, a highlight was Moran's Oyster Cottage, where we indulged in a three-part oyster experience with Kelly Oysters, including the delicious Oysters Thermidor. 

Last Minute Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas Available at The English Market, Cork

 Last Minute Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas Available at The English Market, Cork 

With Valentine’s Day fast approaching, the traders at The English Market have been busy preparing a selection of locally sourced food gifts, crafts, and treats, perfect for those last-minute shoppers looking to spoil their loved ones. For those unsure of what to choose, The English Market’s new online vouchers make the perfect gift, available instantly as digital vouchers or as physical gift cards from select stalls, redeemable across 40 traders.

Here is a selection of traders offering a variety of options to suit all tastes and budgets.

The Roughty Foodie
Celebrate Valentine’s Day with a beautiful gift from The Roughty Foodie. Their special Valentine’s bundle includes 12 red roses, a box of Irish chocolates in the shape of a pear shape, and a Cork artist-designed card, all for just €50.

For something extra special, the ‘Pure Cork Tapas Box’ is packed with delicious local treats, including Cork cheeses, spiced beef from the Chicken Inn, smoked salmon from O’Connell’s, homemade chutney, figs, fruits, and champagne from Bubble Brothers, all with a fresh bouquet of flowers for €100, with pick-up available directly from the stall.

Order hampers online at theroughtyfoodie.com or visit their stall at The English Market.

The Chocolate Shop
Nothing says Valentine’s Day quite like chocolate. The Chocolate Shop has a beautiful selection of heart-shaped chocolate boxes in various sizes and styles, filled with the finest handmade chocolates they’re known for. Their collection features over 100 specially selected chocolates from Irish chocolatiers and the best from around the world.

They also offer smaller Valentine’s treats, perfect little tokens of love that are sure to impress. With heart-shaped chocolates available in five sizes and a variety of colors and fabrics, there’s something for everyone.

Prices for the Valentine’s heart-shaped chocolate boxes range from €20 to €50. Order online for click & collect or nationwide home delivery at chocolate.ie.

Hederman’s Smokehouse
For food lovers, nothing beats a luxurious gourmet gift. Hederman Smoked Salmon makes a thoughtful and delicious present. Known for its exceptional quality and rich flavor, it’s a great way to share something special with friends, family, or a loved one. 

Their elegantly packaged gift boxes make a lasting impression and can even be repurposed for storing recipes, notes, or keepsakes. Find out more at frankhederman.com.

Jump Juice
Celebrate love with a refreshing treat! Jump Juice, known for its fresh, made-to-order smoothies packed with real fruit and nutritious ingredients, is running a special Valentine’s Day promotion on Friday, 14th February: Buy one pink smoothie, get one free!

This offer is valid for one day only, so grab your favorite pink smoothie and share the love. (Free smoothie must be of equal or smaller size.)

As the home of quality Irish food, the English Market has everything you need under one roof to create a romantic Valentine’s Day meal for two. Visit the market from 8 AM to 6 PM, Monday to Saturday (closed Sundays and Bank Holidays), and explore an array of fresh, local delights. For the latest updates and more information, follow The English Market on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook or visit www.corkcity.ie/en/english-market/

Beer of the Week Mescan Gold /Óir Ale 5.7% ABV, 330 ml bottle. Mescan celebrate 10th anniversary in style.

Beer of the Week

Mescan Gold /Óir Ale 5.7% ABV, 330 ml bottle, Bradleys 

Mescan celebrates 10th anniversary in style

This new Mescan ale, brewed to celebrate their recent 10th birthday, has a stunning gold colour and a soft foamy head; it is hazy. Aromas, herbal and spice, are quite intense and not unlike what you might get from a wheat beer. And that impression continues on the palate. Complex yet easily drunk, it feels quite creamy in the mouth on the way to a refreshing and lingering finish. Serving temperature: 4-6 °C

Another outstanding Belgian-style ale from the slopes of Croagh Patrick and one that is Very Highly Recommended and Beer of the Week. Barley, wheat, and spices are listed in the ingredients, plus the basic water, hops and yeast, plus coriander and bitter orange peel.

Mescan’s Cillian says this ale, a limited edition, is very accessible and approachable. It can be drunk on its own as an aperitif or paired with a creamy shellfish dish or cheeses. Enjoy.

The Mescan brewers are a patient lot, and they allow their beers all the time they need. All beers undergo a secondary fermentation in the bottle. To enjoy this beer clear, store the bottle upright and pour the beer into the glass in one go, leaving any sediment in the bottle.

The water for Mescan's beers comes from deep underneath Croagh Patrick via a spring at the brewery. The bulk of the grain used in the recipes is Irish grown and malted, with speciality malts and yeast strains coming from Belgium. Most of the hops come from the Czech Republic. No finings or chemicals are used in the beers, which are unfiltered and unpasteurised. They all contain live yeast.  

Check the 2024/25 Beer of the Week listings here.

LET YOUR LOVE FLOW. VALENTINES AND GALENTINES AT THE LIMERICK STRAND HOTEL

 #Valentinepressrelease

LET YOUR LOVE FLOW BY THE BANKS OF THE RIVER SHANNON

VALENTINES AND GALENTINES AT THE LIMERICK STRAND HOTEL

Stay or dine this Valentine’s at the multi-award-winning hotel

 

 

With its breathtaking riverside setting, the 4-star Limerick Strand Hotel provides a magical backdrop for an unforgettable romantic encounter. It is the ideal destination for those wishing to embrace the beauty of life’s special moments.

FOR THE LOVERS

Stay and revel in a romantic overnight escape in one of their beautifully designed bedrooms. Indulge in a Valentine’s four-course dinner for two at the acclaimed River Room Restaurant, followed by a delightful breakfast the next morning, crafted by the most dedicated culinary team in the city.   

Spend some quality time together and take advantage of the hotel’s amazing Energize Health Centre, where couples can hit the gym or simply enjoy some laid-back leisure with a dip in one of their four pools, including a 20-metre swimming pool, hydrotherapy pool, spa Jacuzzi, Swedish sauna and poolside showers, the perfect way to relax together. Limerick itself is a pretty place to wander about. Given the hotels’ idyllic location on the banks of the River Shannon, with stunning riverside vistas and the city’s most iconic landmarks within walking distance, such as the remarkable 13th century King Johns Castle, The People’s Park, and the River Shannon Viewing Points, it is the perfect choice for couples looking to explore cultural experiences together.  Later that evening, you will experience fine food and treats, enjoying the incredible Valentine’s Dinner in the AA rosette River Room Bar & Restaurant, complete with sharing board options (imagine local artisan charcuterie boards, Doonbeg oysters, and seafood towers). On arrival, guests are greeted with a glass of bubbles to set the romantic scene, followed by a candlelit 4-course dinner specially created by talented Executive Head Chef Paddy Anslow.  Passion for their location is evident on all menus, and for more than 10 years, they have been at the forefront of the ‘farm to fork’ and traceability food evolution. Using fresh, high quality and seasonal food, partnering with local farms and dairies wherever possible, ensure that guests enjoy a taste of the nearby Wild Atlantic Way in the heart of the Golden Vale. 

After a glorious night’s sleep, you and your companion will enjoy a hearty, award-winning breakfast before departure.

The Share the Love package is available to book on Friday, 14th, Saturday, 15th or Sunday, 16th of February and includes overnight accommodation, Valentine’s inspired dinner and breakfast for two adults from €169 per person sharing.

The Valentine’s special dining experience is open to non-residents and available to book on Friday, February 14^th, Saturday, February 15^th, and Sunday, February 16^th, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. The 4-course dinner and a glass of bubbles costs €50 per person. Pre-booking is advised.  

GALENTINE'S

Alternatively, have a Galantine’s adventure and book their Bridget Jones-inspired Bottomless Brunch at The River Bar and Restaurant on Sunday, 16th February, with DJ is available to book (residents and non-residents) from 1–4 pm. Expect belting tunes from the DJ from the greatest hits from the films—yes, that includes “All By Myself,” “It’s Raining Men,” and more—all to sing along with a glass in hand, in true Bridget style. The brunch menu features such tasty bites, including the classics, Eggs Benedict, limerick ham, Croom free range poached egg on English muffin, hollandaise sauce or Chicken and waffle, crispy chicken breast, fried egg chips and maple syrup, plus other tasty mains and choice of dessert with tea or coffee. It is available to book (residents and non-residents) from 1–4 pm and includes bottomless prosecco top-ups for €50 per person. The mixologists are also working on a Mr Darcy cocktail special to purchase on the day priced at €12.

To make a reservation, call 061 421800 or hello@strandlimerick.ie 

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FIND ROMANCE THIS FEBRUARY

DELIGHT IN ROMANTIC EXPERIENCES AT GLENLO ABBEY HOTEL & ESTATE

Escape to Glenlo Abbey Hotel & Estate for an enhanced romantic experience this February.

Treat someone special to a beautiful overnight stay complete with log fires, lakeside walks around the estate, films, and thoughtful touches. Enjoy a warm welcome with a chilled bottle of champagne upon arrival. Savour a curated seasonal cocktail crafted by their expert mixologist. Relax at Glo Spa or watch a classic film in their private theatre. A romantic turndown service surprise awaits as you settle down for the night. Awaken to a seriously delicious cooked-to-order breakfast before departure.  The overnight experience with breakfast, a bottle of champagne, a cocktail, and romantic touches from € 359.

If you truly want to impress, why not extend your stay with a three-night midweek experience, including cream tea upon arrival, a canapé and drinks reception, and a talk on Glenlo's history? Begin each day with a cooked-to-order breakfast overlooking the 140-acre estate, and on the first morning, join the falconer for a Hawk Walk. Enjoy a cooking demonstration of Glenlo’s seafood chowder, followed by lunch at Palmers Bar     

        

Enjoy a matinee of “Murder on the Orient Express” followed by a candlelit dinner in the opulent surroundings of the River Room Restaurant, where the new Pullman Culinary Team, led by Head Chef Angelo Vagiotis, will showcase their skills, offering a taste of what's to come later this Spring. Spend the last day exploring Galway City and enjoy an Irish coffee demonstration in the historic Oak Cellar Bar. Conclude with a sumptuous breakfast before your departure. End the evening with dinner at Palmers. Depart on day four after another sumptuous breakfast.

 The three-night package includes two dinners, two lunches, cream tea, a canapé reception, a falconry show, a history talk, a cooking demonstration, a movie matinee, an Irish coffee demonstration, and costs from €1233.

Glenlo Abbey Hotel & Estate is one of Ireland's most luxurious hotels, a proud member of Ireland's Blue Book, small luxury hotels, and part of the Irish-owned and managed MHL Hotel Collection. It is just two miles from Galway City and boasts magnificent views overlooking Lough Corrib on a 138-acre estate.

 

Glenlo Abbey’s Team will be delighted to assist you with any queries by telephone at Tel Intl +353 (0) 91 519600. Or Email: stay@glenloabbey.ie. Alternatively, visit www.glenloabbeyhotel.ie for more information.

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A Rare Romantic Getaway to Blue Haven in Kinsale

Evening starts with Moët at Rare!

 Surprise them with a romantic getaway to Ireland’s charming coastal Blue Haven Hotel in Kinsale and an intimate tasting menu at Rare Restaurant

This February, you are invited to experience a romantic escape with an unforgettable fine dining experience from award-winning Executive Chef Meeran Manzoor’s Tasting Menu at Rare at the Blue Haven Hotel in Kinsale. 

Nestled in the heart of the picturesque town of Kinsale, Blue Haven offers the ideal backdrop for couples seeking a quiet retreat with a refined dining experience inspired by Meeran’s South Indian heritage.

Known for its cobbled streets, vibrant harbour, and rich history, Kinsale is an ideal destination to explore with a loved one. Whether strolling through the town’s quaint galleries and shops, enjoying a leisurely walk, or simply relaxing at the hotel, every moment in Kinsale feels like a celebration of love.

Rare and Blue Haven Hotel promise to make the month of romance a celebration to remember with exclusive packages designed to create lasting memories. A Rare Romance Package starts at €190 per person sharing, which includes a Chef’s Tasting Menu Experience at Rare, a glass of Moët champagne, an overnight stay in either the award-winning Blue Haven Hotel or the boutique Old Bank Townhouse and breakfast the following morning. 

Guests can upgrade the experience with a box of artisanal chocolates from local Kinsale chocolatier Koko, a bottle of Moët or a bottle of exclusive Blue Haven Sauvignon Blanc, along with a bespoke floral bouquet from local florist Daisy Chain- all of which are arranged for you by your concierge prior to arrival.

Reservations are now open for the Rare Romantic Getaway at Rare and Blue Haven Hotel, available Thursday to Saturday throughout the month of February. To ensure availability, guests are encouraged to book early. 

For more information or to make a reservation, please visit  www.rare1784.ie or call 021 4772 209.

Keep up to date with the latest news by following Rare Kinsale on social at @rarekinsale

Rare at The Blue Haven is located in The Blue Haven Collection, Pearse Street, Kinsale, Co Cork, P17 NA72. 

Heading to Newbridge Silverware Sale? Fuel up at the onsite Silver Restaurant before or after hitting the shop floor!

Famous Newbridge Silverware Sale Starts Soon

Instore from 19th to 23rd February. Online from 24th.

Fuel up at onsite Silver Restaurant, then grab a bargain or two. 

Customers heading to the Newbridge Silverware Lifestyle Store sale can enjoy a delicious breakfast or lunch at The Silver Restaurant, renowned for its tempting menus. They serve both breakfast and lunch.

The sale has returned, offering savvy shoppers the chance to pick up some fantastic deals on jewellery, giftware, and homeware. With discounts of up to 50% off on selected items, the annual sale promises significant savings across the brand’s most sought-after collections.

The sale will run exclusively in the showroom in the Newbridge Silverware Lifestyle Store in Co. Kildare from the 19^th to the 23^rd of February, and the sale will begin online on the 24^th of February. Free on-site parking is provided at the Lifestyle Store, making it easy for customers to load up on bargains without any hassle.

 

A spokesperson for Newbridge Silverware commented, “Savvy shoppers use the sale to forward plan and purchase gifts for weddings, special occasions, or birthdays. Due to the great value to be found, the sale is very popular, and we would advise people to shop early to avoid disappointment.”

Brunch in the Silver

 

Beyond bargain hunting, the Museum of Style Icons, also located at the same site, is free to enter and features garments and memorabilia once worn by global fashion icons such as Audrey Hepburn, Princess Diana, The Beatles, and Marilyn Monroe. A rotating schedule of visiting exhibitions often complements the permanent collection, including the current display in collaboration with the Irish Costume Archive Project—showcasing costumes from iconic Irish films like Braveheart, Far and Away, and Michael Collins.

 

For more information on the Newbridge Silverware Sale or to browse the full range of discounted products, visit www.newbridgesilverware.com.

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