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Host a Memorable St. Patrick's Day Party

Every March 17th, people come together to celebrate St. Patrick's Day. For most, it's just a time to party; but for the Irish, it is a national holiday where friends and families get together -- as they have for generations -- in the long Irish tradition of storytelling and blarney. They share stories about their husbands, wives and kids, and funny anecdotes from work, continuing to talk until they're all talked out.

Though originally a religious holiday, March 17th has evolved into more of a secular celebration of Irish tradition; and in Ireland, food and drinks serve the purpose of warming the surroundings and making friends feel at home. For your main dish, serve Irish stew, Corned Beef and Cabbage, or Shepherd's Pie; and to finish, try something festive: serve a drink with an Irish twist -- one that contains whiskey.

The Irish have been drinking whiskey since the 12th century, when Monks are rumored to have brought it over from England. The first commercial whiskey distilleries were established in Ireland during the 18th Century, and to this day, Irish drinks and coffees remain one of the most popular ways to finish a festive holiday dinner.

This time of year, Bushmills Irish Cream, a uniquely balanced liqueur with a soft, velvety texture and subtle creamy sweetness, is especially popular. It contains fresh cream, sugar, cocoa and true, original whiskey from the world's oldest licensed whiskey distillery.

Here are some recipes incorporating Bushmills Irish Cream that are sure to be a hit:

* Mint Kiss
2 parts Bushmills Irish Cream
Splash of green crème de menthe
1 part cream or milk
Chocolate syrup

Directions: Shake all ingredients with ice in a cocktail shaker and strain into a martini glass. Drizzle with chocolate syrup. It tastes like your favorite chocolate mint cookie!

And if you're looking for a new, delicious twist on a traditional Irish coffee, try this recipe from Bushmills:

* Irish Cream Cafe
1/2 ounce Bushmills Irish Cream
1/2 ounce coffee liqueur
1/2 ounce hazelnut liqueur
6 ounces coffee
Whipped cream
Cinnamon

Directions: Pour ingredients into a tall coffee mug. Top with fresh hot coffee. Finish with whipped cream and cinnamon.

As your party continues into the night, keep in mind that people are sure to get lost in the celebration of good times together and storytelling; so getting your guests to leave is going to be tough. Keep a few sleeping bags handy: you may need them.

Courtesy of ARA Content

I have a lot of people ask me this question… What is the difference between Syrah and Shiraz? They are surprised when I tell them that there is no difference at all! They are both the same grape. In America we call it Syrah. In Australia and South America they call it Shiraz. Now that we have that clear, I'll take this opportunity to tell you about this divine grape and how you can enjoy it!

Syrah or Shiraz is a robust, rich fruity wine that is perfect for this time of year. Have you noticed that in the Wintertime we like to eat heavier, "comfort" foods, such as Chilli, rich meat stews, and roasts? All of these Winter foods are beautifully complimented by a Syrah or a Shiraz. When you drink this wine you'll first notice a rich berry flavor like blueberries or ripe cherries. Then, it evolves into a smokey peppery flavor with a touch of vanilla oak. Much bolder and fuller than that Merlot you may be fixated on.

A few good suggestions from the Wine Chick:

Forest Glen 2002 Oak Barrel Selection Shiraz------------price about 9.00
A great price for a terrific bottle to pop open for those cold winter nights.

Wolf Blass Presidents Selection 2001 Shiraz-----------price about 17.00
One of the great Australian Shiraz producers. Just Yummy!

Wild Horse 2001 Syrah ------------------------------------price about 22.00
A simply luscious bottle of Syrah from one of my favorite vineyards in California.