Gloria Visits Dublin’s Fair City – Part 2

( If you missed part 1 of this article you can still find it within the Back issues (May 2024) of Discover Pattaya magazine or on the Homepage of our website pattayatrader.com.)

So with the cultural part of a visit to Dublin taken care of it was time to give some consideration to the logo that you will find everywhere around the city – namely that of Guinness, the iconic Irish stout. In Ireland it is more than just a beer; it’s a symbol of heritage, tradition, and craftsmanship.

Founded by Arthur Guinness in Dublin back in 1759, The Guinness Storehouse is located in the heart of the city at St. James’s Gate Brewery and has been developed into a seven-story attraction. Amazingly, it was named World’s Leading Tourist Attraction 2023 at the prestigious World Travel Awards, held in Dubai last December.

Each floor of the Storehouse is dedicated to a different aspect of Guinness’s story, from its unique brewing process to its iconic ad. campaigns. Visitors explore interactive exhibits and historical artefacts and I for one found it fascinating to stroll through the journey of how Guinness is made. With its four main ingredients: barley, water, hops, and yeast. I had always wondered how this particular beer got its dark colour? I discovered it is because the barley is roasted at 232 degrees centigrade and that gives it the signature dark colour and flavour.

Another interesting tip to come away with was given to us in the tasting room. Here we found out that one should never sip Guinness because that will give a bitter taste. This is certainly in my case because I have often enjoyed the occasional draft – especially when in the “old country” but have usually found it rather bitter unless I ask for a drop of blackcurrant to be added: A “Black & Black” . Well the reason for the bitter taste is due to the fact Guinness store their yeast in liquid nitrogen and that is what you are tasting if you just sip your pint. Apparently the official tasting method is to inhale, take a good gulp let it wash around your mouth to then get the full creamy flavour before swallowing. – So there you go – no more blackcurrant required!

As well as a really interesting gift shop the final highlight of the Guinness Storehouse experience is the Gravity Bar. Located right on the seventh floor. You can savour your complimentary pint while enjoying stunning,panoramic views of Dublin. The Guinness Storehouse is a must-see attraction when you visit Ireland’s fair city.