Galway has in its mitts a mixologist master. Johnny Callahan from Inishowen Donegal and working for the Skeff Late Bar and Kitchen on Eyre Square has just won his second major national title and will now represent Ireland on the global stage. Having won at Irish Jameson Cocktail finals earlier in the year, this time he has been showing off his incredible skills in preparing the finest tequila drinks in all of Ireland. He beat off competition from some of the best bars in Dublin, Cork and the rest of Ireland including Xico, 37 Dawson Street and Cask.
His winning cocktail was his signature cocktail called Shapeshifter. This drink was inspired by Irish Mythology of the creature that can change shape and physical appearance. And that’s exactly what his drink does. Infused with hibiscus tea in to crush ice cubes, this drinks base combines Aloe Vera, homemade falernum the premium Olmeca Altos Tequila Plata. The shapeshifting occurs as the ice melts. The drink suddenly will change shape and flavour. Goodness knows what happens to those that drink it.
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Having won his award, Johnny will move on to represent Ireland on the world stage at the grand final of the biggest tequila competition in the world. It takes place in Mexico on the 11th of September. He will take on 24 other competitors with one winner from each country. From all the Skeff, well done and best of luck to Johnny. His signature cocktail will soon be on the Skeff cocktail menu.
In preparation of the Galway Waterford final, Johnny has been busy adding the final touches to a brand new cocktail exclusively available with the Skeff. The Deise Destroyer will be available as a special this weekend showcasing the best of Galway.
Poor Waterford may not have won the All Ireland for 58 years but Galway’s wait of 29 years is long enough and our thirst is equally as strong. To quench it, the Skeff have put on a maroon and white special containing the finest ingredients in Galway including Galway Gin, a syrup extracted from Galway Hooker and Lime.
Let’s hope there is no bitter aftertaste and it’s Liam not Lime, Galway fans taste this weekend.
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