Cork’s Cask Named 2018 Bar of the Year
Following heated competition which saw judges travel the length and breadth of the country, Cask in Co. Cork has taken home the coveted title of 2018 Bar of the Year. Up against over 500 entries, Cask was deemed to be outstanding in all areas, with judges particularly noting its unique design.
A host of other winners were celebrated on the night. Those looking to sample today’s on trend spirit should look no further than the Gin Library at Galgorm Resort & Spa in Antrim which took home Gin Bar of the Year (sponsored by Drumshanbo Gunpowder Irish Gin) while traditionalists can head to The Shelbourne Bar in Cork which was named Whiskey Bar of the Year (sponsored by The Dubliner Whiskey). For anyone looking for the perfect combination of spirits, Traford Murphy of Cork’s Ballymaloe House is on hand to pour the perfect cocktail having been named the Bushmills Cocktail Bartender of the Year.
The pressure wasn’t just on the judging panel with five awards chosen by an ever more discerning public. The Southern Comfort People’s Choice Awards saw An Púcán in Galway take home both the overall People’s Choice Award and the regional title in Connacht/Ulster. Dolan’s of Limerick (Munster), Devitts of Camden Street (Dublin) and Ireland’s highest pub Johnnie Fox’s (Leinster) rounded out the Southern Comfort People’s Choice winners.
The winners of all categories were revealed at a gala awards ceremony on Monday 20 th August in the Clayton Hotel Burlington Road, Dublin hosted by Newstalk’s Tom Dunne. The Tasting Village was once again a big hit as local artisan distillers and craft brewers from across Ireland showcased their unique products to over 500 attendees.
Commenting on the winners, Katherine O’Riordan, Event Director said “The judges were blown away with the standards right across the board this year. Bars throughout Ireland continue to create, innovate and up their game. From the classic Irish pub to trendy cocktail bars, the variety and quality is what makes these bars stand out above the rest.”
“We are delighted that these awards give us the opportunity to showcase the very best bars, pubs and clubs this country has to offer. Ireland is known the world over for our outstanding bars along with the craic they provide – if these winners are anything to go by, that reputation is in safe hands.”
