Irish Whiskey with a Minnesota Connection

Kieran Folliard

A well-known, local businessman and restaurateur has helped rebrand Irish whiskey for a whole new generation: Kieran Folliard. Actually, Folliard’s Celtic roots extend throughout the Twin Cities (recognize any of the restaurants he founded: Kieran’s, The Local, and The Liffey, for instance). But it’s the drink we are interested in -- the wildly popular 2 Gingers Irish Whiskey – once sold exclusively here in Minnesota – has now gained a national audience (and he sold the company to Beam).

It’s said that Folliard named 2 Gingers for his red-headed mother and aunt, Mary and Delia, whose faces can be found on the bottle label. We say thanks, because this whiskey is now the fastest-growing Irish whiskey brand in the United States. With its hometown roots, 2 Gingers is made at the Kilebeggan Distillery (formerly the Cooley Distillery) in County Louth, Ireland, and makes a great sipping whiskey with its slightly sweet, malty flavor.

2 Ginger Cocktail Recipes

There are also many great cocktail recipes featuring Irish whiskey. And remember, you don’t have to be Irish to enjoy Irish whiskey any time of the year.  If these recipes leave you wanting more, don’t worry, our Whiskey Guide is chock-full of more recipes, suggestions, and fun facts!

Signature Drink: Big Ginger

• Fill a Collins glass with ice
• Pour 2 parts 2 Gingers Irish Whiskey
• Top up with regular or diet ginger ale
• Wedge with both lemon & lime

New Fashioned Old Fashioned

• 1.5 oz. Irish whiskey
• Splash orange juice
• Splash orange liqueur
• 2 dashes bitters
• Soda water

Combine ingredients in a low-ball or rocks glass and stir. Add ice and top with soda water to taste. Garnish with a cherry and orange peel.

Irish Snapper

• Combine over ice:
• 1.5 parts Irish whiskey
• Small splash peach liqueur
• Top off with cranberry juice

Food Pairing:

• Smoked Salmon
• Soft, creamy cheeses
• Chocolates

And, what’s an article about the drink of Ireland without an Irish toast?

“May the hinges of our friendship never grow rusty.“

 Sláinte!

Founded in 1934, Haskell’s has championed fine wines for over 80 years. We have 13 wine stores in Minnesota, two delis and one restaurant. As one of the top wine shops in North America, Haskell’s is known for legendary service and one of the finest collections of wine, beer and spirits. Led by Chairman and CEO Jack Farrell, and the Farrell family, Haskell’s continues to be at the forefront of the wine scene throughout the world. Haskell’s also can ship wine, beer & spirits all throughout the world, the U.S. and we deliver locally.