By Paula Polei Every year, March 17 marks Saint Patrick’s Day, a cultural and religious celebration of the most commonly recognized patron saint of Ireland, Saint Patrick. While not a legal holiday in the U.S., Saint Patrick’s Day is widely recognized and observed as a celebration of Irish and Irish American culture. Celebrations include prominent displays of green, eating and drinking, religious observances, as well as numerous parades and festivals. As BOB plans for this upcoming Saint Patrick’s Day, he thought he would share a few Irish-inspired craft beer recommendations with you. Sprecher Stout | Sprecher Brewing Company A tribute to Ireland, Sprecher Stout is a smooth, creamy blend with distinctive flavors and aromas reminiscent of bittersweet chocolate and dark coffee. Boston Irish Stout | Harpoon Brewery Full-bodied but sessionable, Harpoon’s Boston Irish Stout has a creamy texture and combines the roasted character of six malts and delicate Willamette hops. Irish Setter Red | Thirsty Dog Brewing Company A medium light body with freshly ground caramel, Thirsty Dog’s Irish Setter Red has an inviting noble, nutty, toasted malt aroma with little to no bitterness. The American caramel malt and Kent Goldings hops from England provide a perfect flavor combination. Irish Ale | Boulevard Brewing Company A Midwestern tribute to the legendary red ales of old Ireland, Boulevard’s Irish Ale combines six kinds of pale and roasted barley malts that provide a moderate toasted malt flavor with a moderate hop bitterness. Newport Storm Spring Irish Red Ale | Coastal Extreme Brewing Company Deep ruby red in color, Newport Storm’s Spring Irish Red Ale has roasted malt tones and a crisp hop character that make this style legendary. Hops from the United Kingdom lend even more Irish authenticity to the style. What craft beer will you be celebrating St. Patrick’s Day with?