When my baby brother got married in October, Lorna and I gave the newlyweds a pair of nice Waterford Irish Coffee cups along with my Irish Coffee recipe.

We finally got to show them the proper use of such fine vessels with the help of fresh-ground coffee, Knappogue Castle Irish Whiskey, and fresh thickened cream. It was a cool night in coastal Maine, and the Irish Coffee took the chill off while we looked at photos of their honeymoon in Italy.

Irish Coffee is a delight on a winter evening, when prepared properly with quality ingredients. Don't let a disappointing experience with weak coffee and Redi-Whip ruin this convivial winter potion for you - try my Irish Coffee recipe when you can, and post your thoughts below.