The Three Drinkers in Ireland Season 1 Episode 4 Cutting the Cheese

The Three Drinkers in Ireland season 1 episode 4 takes the trio of travel and drinks writers to the Castleknock Hotel and Country Club in Dublin. The episode opens with Aidy Smith introducing viewers to Ireland's cheese-making traditions and the cheese industry's significance to the country's economy. He also highlights how the pandemic has affected the industry. Smith describes how cheese production is a meticulous process that requires patience, care, and precision.

The Three Drinkers trio − Aidy Smith, Colin Hampden-White, and Helena Nicklin − then meet with Michael Finegan, a third-generation family cheesemaker. At the farm, we see how Michael receives the milk from his dad's farm. We also see how Michael has modernized the cheese-making process through the use of technology.

Michael explains the difference in the type of milk used in making cheese, stating that the weather or the quality of grass will determine the butterfat level in the milk. The group then moves on to the next stage of the cheese-making process, where Michael adds starter cultures to the milk. The team learns how the cultures help acidify the milk and add flavor to the cheeses.

The milk then undergoes a curdling process which sets it, and Michael shows the Three Drinkers how he cuts the curd to extract the whey. Michael also explains the difference between cheddar and feta cheeses and how the curd is handled while making each type.

As they wait for the cheese to mature, the group gets into a cheese and whisky pairing session, where they sample different local cheeses while sipping on some of Ireland's finest whiskies. They discuss the importance of pairing the right type of cheese with the right whiskey to achieve a perfect blend of flavors.

The Three Drinkers then head out of Michael's farm and set off to the Knockhouse Distillery for some more tastings. Here, they meet with Stephen Teeling, a master distiller, to learn about the art of whisky-making while savoring the rich taste of the different whiskies the distillery has to offer.

Throughout the episode, viewers can enjoy breathtaking views of Dublin and gain an insight into the city's history and architecture. The episode concludes with the Three Drinkers anticipation to finally try the cheese they have been waiting for so patiently.

The Three Drinkers in Ireland season 1 episode 4 is an interesting episode that takes viewers on a journey of cheese-making, featuring some of Ireland's most celebrated cheesemakers and distillers. It is a perfect show for any foodie who wants to learn more about the art of cheese and whiskey-making while experiencing beautiful Irish countryside views.