Well I’ve read that if you are in Cork, belly up and order a pint of Murphy’s. & there’s a friend bugs me every once in a while have I tried Kilkenny yet.  So it’s on my mind. I had one bad experience with Guinness Stout 20 years ago, so it took me a long time to finally appreciate (drought) Guinness, now I like it on a euphoric scale: if I REALLY want a beer, I only go where Guinness is on tap.  BUT I get the feeling it’s become a “popular/fad” item now … and, besides the ridiculous effin price, I fear it also may mean a drop in quality.  Kinda wish Guinness would remain a black sheep of beers, but the millions spent on ads and brewery location, etc.… eech, that could spell trouble….

”If you like Newcastle, Sam Adams, etc., something with body and flavor and a not-very-bitter aftertaste, it would be worth a taste…”

(for lack of Murphy’s & Kilkenny’s)  I will pick up a six of Smithwick’s today … and give it a go.  Been off ale for a long time (lager and stout predominantly), so hopefully it won’t come across as just tasting “green” to me. 

Hey, Mick, thanks for the rundown.  Chalk & cheese.