This Cork microbrewery just became the best in Ireland

We love to see it!

Cork’s beloved Elbow Lane Microbrewery, the smallest brewery in the country, has scored both a Gold Award and a Best in Ireland Award for its Elbow Larger at the 2024 World Drinks Awards, which have just been announced.

Elbow Lager is a particularly refreshing continental-style lager and owes its flavour to Pilsner and Munich malts and “Noble” hop varieties imported from Germany and the Czech Republic. AT 4.4% abv, it is a great compliment to most light dishes, and is also a treat on its own.   

“We are delighted to win Best in Ireland for our Elbow Lager says” Russell Garret, Master Brewer at Elbow Lane.  “This is one of the first beers we made at Elbow Lane when we set up the brewery in 2014 so it is great to celebrate this win as part of our 10th Anniversary”.

Elbow Lane restaurant on Oliver Plunkett Street (image via TripAdvisor)

At 27% abv, Joe’s Amaretto was described by the judges as having “a dominant sweet almond aroma with a thick and sweet mouthfeel leading to a palate rich in almond, complemented by a mysterious spice note that adds intrigue, providing a smooth and nutty overall experience.”

Joe’s Amaretto is one of several experimental drinks to come out of the Elbow Lane Brewhouse and Fermentary this year.  Others include a Hazelnut Stout and there is a collaboration with Rebel Distillery gin being matured at the moment, which will be released in October.

Experiments aside, the core range of six beers at Elbow, including the award-winning Elbow Larger, is brewed according to the principles of the German Purity Law which means that only four ingredients are used; water, barley, hops and yeast.

As part of the progressive Market Lane Group of restaurants, these beers are brewed specifically to work with the food offered it’s five restaurants; Elbow Lane Smokehouse, Market Lane, ORSO, goldie and Blackrock Castle Cafe.  Joe’s Amaretto is also available in all of these locations.

The Brewery hosts Tutored Tastings on-site every Saturday from 12 noon. Including food pairings and a complimentary, limited-edition Elbow Lane T-Shirt, admission is €55 per person. See www.elbowlane.ie to book/find out more details.

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