The Cocktail Every Man Should Be Drinking This March

Some guys have their go-to libation: no matter the time, no matter the place, they want this beer or that drink, and the matter really isn’t up for discussion. Others are constantly switching up their poisons, perusing the menu for familiar flavors, taking the advice of the bartender, or simply having what everyone else at the table ordered.

Then, there’s the rest of us; those that I describe as the seasonal explorers, who take different chunks of time to learn about a certain style of beer, a region of wine, or a family of cocktails. They never order the same glass twice, because the goal isn’t reliability, it’s the adventure of comparing a variety of options to learn about what goes into the Platonic ideal of said glass-filler.    

For these people, allow ManMade to suggest – this March, you should be drinking: an Irish Coffee. 

This pick is, of course, inspired by St. Patrick’s Day next Monday, though we suspect most who’ll be celebrating will do so this weekend. But, it’s also a fantastic option for this season in general. March is often wet, sogging, and just cold enough that warm drinks still make sense. 

Of course, this drink requires that you actually enjoy drinking coffee, and, for that matter, enjoy drinking whiskey. But, perhaps if either or neither really made sense to you, this would be a great way to learn.

These are great for the weekend, but be careful if you enjoy them at nighttime. There are plenty of high-quality decaffeinated beans out there, and I can’t think of a better use for them than here. 

The ManMade Irish Coffee: 

• 2 oz. Irish Whiskey – try Bushmills Black Bush, Tullamore Dew Special Reserve, or Jameson 12 Year (though no one here will get mad at you for subbing Canadian whiskey, blended Scotch, or even a Kentucky Bourbon)
• 2 teaspoons brown sugar
• 5-6 oz. freshly brewed coffee
• Optional: unsweetened whipped cream (the old fashioned heavy cream in a bowl with a whisk kind)

Pour the whiskey and sugar in a warmed mug, and top with hot coffee. Stir to dissolve, and finish with whipped cream, if using. (We don’t usually go the whipped cream route, but it’s a great way to impress guests or a special someone. Up to you.)

Cheers! Or, rather… Sláinte!