eat + drink

For some Americans, St. Patrick's Day is a time for drinking some of Ireland's tastiest exports. To give celebrants a little expertise to go along with their beer goggles, we went to a couple of guys who know a lot about drinking the Irish way.

FERGAL MURRAY

HEAD BEERMASTER, GUINNESS IN DUBLIN

What's the proper way to pour Guinness?

[There are] six steps for the perfect pour. The first is to make sure you have a clean, dry glass. Second, the glass should be held at a 45-degree angle under the spout. Third, fill the glass three-quarters of the way. The fourth step is let it settle, watching the bubbles trying to get back into the solution. Fifth, fill the rest of the glass, topping it off so the head is proud at the rim. The sixth step is to serve. That whole piece of theater, that whole ritual, is very important to Guinness. The image of the perfect pint is what we want to have because most people drink their beer with their eyes first.

How do you make a good Black & Tan?

It's Guinness sitting on top of Smithwicks or Harp's Lager. You pour your lager or ale in first, fill the glass halfway. Then you top it off with Guinness, with a gentle flow in over the top of a spoon or just a gentle flow down the side of the glass.

What type of meal goes best with Guinness?

Seafood is my favorite. Oysters, shrimps and shellfish. The flavor in the Guinness brings out the flavor in the fish.

Is Guinness really good for you?

Guinness is lower in calories than most domestic beers. It has 120 calories per 12 ounces, which is less than a glass of orange juice.

What makes a good Irish pub?

Loads of Guinness taps (laughs). No, just friendly folk and friendly service. But the Irish theme doesn't necessarily enhance a pub. I don't need a pub with shamrocks. I like to actually go into a modern bar and enjoy a pint, as well.

Is St. Patrick's Day in Ireland a party day like it is in the U.S.?

It's more of a cultural festival in Ireland. Yeah, people go out and have a drink. But there's not that surge to go out and have a glass of beer like there is [in the United States]. We celebrate being Irish 365 days a year.

If you could be a master in any other profession, what would it be?

Test-driving Ferraris.

COLUM EGAN