Savor the subtleties of Irish beers and spirits

How do you tell the difference between Irish whiskey and Scotch whisky? By looking at the "e" which is slipped in after the "k", of course. And by comparing them during a visit to the Jameson Distillery in Midleton, County Cork. Founded by the Murphy family, this distillery tour will show you how whiskey is produced as you sample some. Then, Northern Ireland’s Old Bushmills Distillery officially dates back to 1608, making it the oldest in the world.

In Dublin, be sure to savor the white foam found in Ireland's famous dark beer at the Guinness Storehouse or in a local pub. But watch out, in Cork, they serve Murphy's instead. If you prefer sweeter and creamier notes, enjoy the dessert-like taste of Baileys.

Irish coffee was originally served at Foynes Airport. To warm passengers up after a tumultuous seaplane flight, chef Joe Sheridan had the idea of mixing coffee, whiskey, brown sugar, and whipped cream. Today, this gourmet recipe is still enjoyed in pubs after a hearty meal.