Part of the Guinness family, along with Guinness and Harp, Smithwick’s (pronounced “Smith-icks”, “Smitticks” or “Smiddicks” — the ‘w’ is silent) is a delicious, imported Irish Red Ale with a distinctive amber hue when held against light. Although Smithwick’s is not as popular as Guinness on the world stage, it’s considered a local favorite back in Ireland.
The second most enjoyable thing about Smithwick’s, after the kick-ass goodness it delivers when it hits your palate, is the story behind the beer.
Smithwick’s was originally brewed in St. Francis Abbey Brewery in Kilkenny, known as ‘Smithwicks Brewery’ until c.2000. The brewery is situated on the site of a Franciscan abbey where monks had brewed ale since the 14th century, and has ruins of the original abbey on its grounds. It is Ireland’s oldest operating brewery, founded by John Smithwick in 1710 on land owned by the Duke of Ormonde. It is the major ale producer in Ireland.
I was in Boston a couple of weeks ago and everywhere I went there was Smithwick’s on tap. So, everywhere I went I had one. The great thing about Smithwick’s, especially when compared to Guinness, is that it’s a little bit lighter than a Guinness and not nearly as creamy. To me, cream = full gut/slowed down drinking, which is never a good thing. I could easily drink 10 of these at a steady pace and not pass my top button threshold. I’d probably get a little shit-faced though. These babys are sitting comfortably at 5.0% ABV. I recommend you try some of ol’ Ireland.
Check out the Brewer’s Page here.
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Guinness is red as well, hold it up to the light. I prefer Old Speckled Hen.
It is a great beer. I first had it back in 1992 when I went to Ireland, but could never find it in the states until a couple of years ago. Give it a try.
My Irish friend says that Smithwicks is “fukin rubbish” and Guinness is the local favorite…