Still searching for ideas on celebrating St. Patrick’s Day like a grown-ass woman (or man) with some sense and a job you’re expected to turn up to tomorrow? We got you. Rather than trying to drink like you’re still in college, why not enjoy a reasonable and responsible amount of quality pours? We’ve already schooled you on the joys of a proper pint of Guinness. Here are our picks for pulling off a regret-free Patrick’s Day.

 

Why not Whiskey?

Last April 15 (Tax Day), we sang the praises of Irish whiskey, particularly Glendalough Double Barrel. Having recently enjoyed a few cocktails made with this single grain spirit, our assessment holds up. It’s slightly sweet with nice hint of spiciness.

 

 

The new kid on the Irish whiskey block comes from a most unlikely corner. Legendary Irish punk band The Pogues teamed up with West Cork Distillers, one of the last independent distilleries in Ireland to produce The Pogues Irish Whiskey. A 50/50 blend of grain and single malt, this young (aged just three years and a day) whiskey is aimed at the newer whiskey drinkers. Although the taste is not complex—it is pretty young—the notes of malt, mild chocolate and citrus shine through making this a fine choice to toast the day.

 

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How about a cocktail?

 

If whiskey or beer are not your thing, try one of these cocktails—and yes, one of them is green because…St. Patrick’s Day.

 

Basil Hayden’s Lucky Ginger
Created by Zachary Brian Taylor (San Francisco, CA)

 

1½ parts Basil Hayden’s Bourbon
¾ parts Lemon Juice
1/2 part Brown Sugar Syrup*
1 spring of Rosemary
Ginger Beer

Combine bourbon, lemon juice and brown sugar syrup into a cocktail shaker. Remove rosemary needles from the bottom 3/4 of the spring and add to the shaker. Save the top of the spring for use as a garnish. Add ice to shaker and shake. Double strain into a Collins glass filled with ice. Top with ginger beer. Garnish with the remaining rosemary spring.

*Brown Sugar Syrup
1 part Water
1 part Brown Sugar

 

 

 

Knob Creek Mint Ginger Old Fashioned
Created by Celebrity Chef Michael Symon

1½ Parts Knob Creek Rye Whiskey
Ginger Beer
½ Part Lemon Juice
¼ Part Green Chartreuse
6-8 Mint Leaves

Combine all ingredients (except ginger beer) in a bar tin with ice and shake well. Strain into a chilled Collins glass, top off with ginger beer and garnish with a single mint leaf.

 

 

Midori Green Eyed Ginger

1 part Midori Melon Liqueur
2 parts 2 GINGERS Irish Whiskey
2 parts Ginger Ale
Lemon Wheel
Lime Wheel

Build in order over ice in a tall glass. Garnish with a lemon & lime half moon wheel on the rim.

 

 

Whatever you’re having, keep it cute and classy. Remember, with great grown-folks powers comes great responsibility. Besides, you’re got work in the morning.