Baggotstreet Wines

Ireland’s rich tradition of distilling dates back centuries, evolving from the illicit fires of poitín makers to the globally recognised premium whiskeys we enjoy today. From secret stills in the hills to award-winning brands on the world stage, the story of Irish spirits is one of resilience, craftsmanship, and a deep connection to the land. The Birth of Poitín: Ireland’s First Spirit Before whiskey became Ireland’s most famous export, there was poitín (pronounced "put-cheen"), a potent and often illicit spirit. Poitín dates back to at least the 6th century, with early records suggesting that Irish monks were among the first to master the art of distillation. Made from malted barley, potatoes, or even sugar beets, it was produced in small pot stills, often hidden away in remote hillsides to avoid British tax collectors. Despite being outlawed in 1661, poitín never disappeared. Instead, it became a symbol of Irish defiance and ingenuity, thriving in secret for over 300 years...

Ireland is renowned for its world-class whiskey, smooth gins, and rich cream liqueurs. But when it comes to cocktails, many still turn to international brands, overlooking the magic of Irish spirits. If you want to mix like a pro, it's time to embrace Ireland’s best! From whiskey-based classics to modern gin infusions, Irish spirits bring depth, tradition, and a touch of the unexpected to your drinks. Whether you’re stocking up your home bar or ordering spirits online in Ireland , here’s how to mix the perfect Irish cocktails. 1. Irish Whiskey: The Backbone of Classic Cocktails Whiskey is Ireland’s most famous spirit, and for a good reason. It’s smooth, versatile, and works beautifully in cocktails. In fact, Irish whiskey exports hit a record €1 billion in 2023, showing the world’s love for this golden elixir. For a flawless Old Fashioned or Whiskey Sour, Redbreast 12-Year-Old is a top choice. Its sherry-aged richness balances well with citrus and bitters. If you prefer something l...

  Choosing the perfect white wine can seem like a tricky task, especially if you're new to the world of wine. But don’t worry, you don’t have to be an expert to pick a great bottle. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating a special occasion, or simply enjoying a quiet evening, selecting the right white wine can make a big difference. At Baggot Street Wines, we know how important it is to choose the perfect bottle, so we’ve created this easy-to-follow guide to help you buy white wine like never before. Why White Wine? White wine is one of the most popular drinks around the world, loved for its refreshing taste and versatility. It can be paired with many foods, from light salads to hearty seafood dishes, and even enjoyed on its own as a simple treat. But with so many options available, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed when trying to decide which one to buy. The good news is that selecting the right white wine doesn’t have to be complicated. Let’s break it down into simple st...

  If you’re a wine lover, you know that wine can be the perfect drink to unwind after a busy day or celebrate a special occasion. But have you ever stopped to wonder what goes into your glass of wine? While most people focus on the flavour and aroma, many aren’t aware that some wines aren’t entirely plant-based. This is where vegan wines come in, offering a healthier and more environmentally friendly alternative for those who prefer to stick to a vegan lifestyle. What Are Vegan Wines? At first glance, you might think all wines are vegan since grapes are the main ingredient. However, traditional wine making processes sometimes use animal-derived products during production. These include gelatin, isinglass (a form of fish bladder), egg whites, and casein (a milk protein). These animal-based products are used for fining, a process that helps clarify the wine and remove any unwanted particles or cloudiness. In contrast, vegan wines are made without any animal-derived ingredients. Inste...

  Wine has been a favourite drink for people around the world for many years. Whether it's for a fancy dinner, a celebration, or a quiet evening at home, wine is often a go-to choice. But what if you don’t want to drink alcohol? That’s where alcohol-free wine comes in! This blog will help you understand the differences between alcohol-free wines and traditional wines and why alcohol-free options might be perfect for you. What Is Alcohol-Free Wine? Alcohol-free wine is exactly what it sounds like – wine without alcohol. It’s made from regular wine but goes through a special process to remove most of the alcohol. The result is a drink that looks and tastes like traditional wine, but without the effects of alcohol. How Is Alcohol-Free Wine Made? Alcohol-free wine starts out as regular wine made from grapes. Winemakers use different techniques to remove the alcohol, such as: Vacuum Distillation: The wine is heated at a lower temperature in a vacuum, which helps to separate and remove ...