Sláinte is how you say cheers in Ireland!
While Guinness is the obvious Irish ale or beer coming to mind, one of our favorites local brews comes from the other side of the Emerald Isle: The Galway Hooker.
Produced by Galway Bay Brewery, the “Galway Hooker” takes its name from its namesake: a traditional sailing boat that’s a distinctive feature of Ireland’s west coast. The brewery’s logo features a stylized Galway Hooker.
Galway Hooker is a typical Irish ale brewed with a rich, full-bodied flavor and a deep copper color. The brew is made with a combination of pale malt, crystal malt, and roasted barley. The hops used are Irish-grown, giving the beer a distinct, smooth, and hoppy finish. What does the Galway Hooker taste like? Ted, our resident beer expert, is a big fan: “It’s one of my favorite Irish beers, having a good balance between the sweetness of the malt and the bitterness of the hops, with subtle notes of caramel and toffee.” Galway Hooker has an alcohol content of around 4.4% ABV.
Galway Hooker is a great representation of traditional Irish-style beers, and it’s particularly well-suited to pairing with hearty, flavorful foods such as stews, casseroles, and strong cheeses. It’s also a good choice for those who like more traditional beer styles, as well as those who enjoy a well-balanced brew.
It’s considered a core beer for the Galway Bay Brewery, and it’s one of the most popular beers from Ireland’s rugged West Coast that’s an absolute must-try. Galway Hook is available in bottles and on draft at many pubs, bars, and restaurants across Ireland.