Irish whiskey has a long history, dating back to 1405. It was once the world’s most popular spirit in the late 19th century. But, it faced a big decline. Now, it’s back and more popular than ever.
The Irish whiskey scene is now full of new distilleries and exciting projects. From smooth sippers to bold blends, there’s a lot to choose from. We’ve found the top Irish whiskeys for you to try. Our list includes everything from affordable options to luxury single malts.
Let’s check out our selection of the best Irish whiskeys you can enjoy right now.
The Rich History of Irish Whiskey
Irish whiskey has a long history that goes back to the 6th century. It’s one of Europe’s oldest spirit drinks. By the late 1700s, Ireland had about 2000 stills, showing how popular it was.
The story of Irish whiskey is full of ups and downs. In the 1800s, it was the top choice in Great Britain. Jameson became a big hit in the U.S. by 1919. But, the Great Famine of 1845-49 hit hard, reducing the population. Later, Prohibition in America and trade issues during Ireland’s fight for freedom hurt the whiskey industry.
By 1960, only four of the original 30 distilleries were still making whiskey. But, the industry bounced back. The Irish Distillers Group formed in 1966. In 1987, Cooley Distillery opened, starting a new chapter.
Now, Irish whiskey is making a big comeback. New distilleries are popping up, each with their own story. From Bushmills, the world’s oldest distillery, to Teeling, which brought whiskey back to Dublin after 40 years, innovation meets tradition.
Understanding Irish Whiskey Categories
Irish whiskey has many types, each with its own special taste. The main styles include single pot still, single malt, single grain, and blended. These offer a variety of flavors for different tastes.
Single pot still whiskey is a standout among Irish whiskeys. It’s from malted and unmalted barley in one distillery. This type features a spicy flavor and thick texture that whiskey fans love.
Single malt Irish whiskey uses only malted barley from one distillery. Triple distillation gives it a smoother taste than Scottish single malt. Single grain whiskey uses different grains and comes from column stills. This makes it taste lighter.
Blended Irish whiskey is the most common type. It mixes whiskeys from various distilleries for a unique flavor. This style is often lighter and easier to drink, making it great for beginners.
To be called Irish whiskey, the drink must age for at least three years in oak barrels in Ireland. This aging process enhances the rich flavors and smooth character that defines Irish whiskey.
The Importance of Barrel Aging in Irish Whiskey
Barrel aging is key to making Irish whiskey taste unique. It turns raw spirit into a complex, flavorful drink. Oak barrels add special traits to the whiskey.
In Ireland, whiskey must age in oak barrels for at least three years. This lets the spirit soak up flavors and colors from the wood. The wood’s impact is huge, making up 60% to 80% of the whiskey’s taste.
Due to Ireland’s limited oak trees, distillers often use previously used barrels. These barrels come in different sizes, each changing the aging process:
- Standard American Barrels: 53 gallons
- Hogsheads: 63 gallons
- Sherry Butts: 132 gallons
- Quarter Casks: 13 gallons
The barrel’s size affects how fast it ages the whiskey. Smaller barrels age whiskey quicker because they have more surface area. For instance, a 20-liter barrel can age whiskey in just two months, while bigger ones take longer.
As whiskey ages, some of it evaporates, known as the “angel’s share.” This loss is usually 2% to 5% each year. It makes the whiskey’s flavors stronger. The wood also adds tannins, making the whiskey more complex.
Irish whiskey makers keep a close eye on the aging process. They taste and test the whiskey often to get the perfect flavor. This careful aging is what makes Irish whiskey special, offering a wide range of tastes for fans to enjoy.
Best Irish Whiskey Brands for Every Budget
Irish whiskey offers a wide range of prices, fitting every budget. Whether you’re looking for affordable or premium options, there’s something for you.
Budget Options
- Jameson is a great choice for those on a budget and has established itself since 1780. It boasts a smooth taste and versatility, making it a popular option among whiskey drinkers.
- Bushmills is another excellent choice, recognized as the world’s oldest licensed distillery. This brand celebrates its classic flavor profile, offering a taste that reflects its long history.
Mid-Range Options
- Tullamore Dew stands out in the mid-range category, holding the status of the second-largest Irish whiskey seller globally. With an ABV of 40%, it appeals to many with its balanced character.
- The Sexton also fits into this category with an ABV of 40%. It features smoothness and an approachable flavor. This makes it an excellent choice for both newcomers and seasoned whiskey enthusiasts.
- Slane offers a unique experience as well, with an ABV of 40%. It stands out for aging in three types of casks, which contributes to its depth of flavor.
Premium Options
Redbreast 12 Year earns high regard, featuring an ABV of 40%. Its rich flavors and complexity make it a favorite among connoisseurs. - Green Spot is another premium choice, also with an ABV of 40%. It celebrates its distinctive taste and premium quality, making it a worthwhile addition to any whiskey collection.
- Teeling stands out in this category with a higher ABV of 46%. It features bold flavors and innovative aging processes, appealing to those seeking something unique.
Splurge Options
- Knappogue Castle 12 Year Single Malt features an ABV of 43%. It is ideal for whiskey connoisseurs seeking a refined experience that showcases the craftsmanship behind Irish whiskey.
- Glendalough Double Barrel is another splurge-worthy choice, with an ABV of 42%. This whiskey ages in both bourbon and sherry casks, resulting in a distinct and memorable flavor profile.
Exploring the 3 Icons of Irish Whiskey
Irish whiskey has a rich heritage, known for its smoothness, distinctive flavors, and centuries-old traditions. Among the most iconic names in the industry are Redbreast, Jameson, and Bushmills.
Each brand brings its unique craftsmanship and story to the table, offering whiskey lovers a taste of Ireland’s finest spirits. Let’s explore what makes these brands stand out and why whiskey lovers celebrate them worldwide.
1. Redbreast: A Pinnacle of Irish Whiskey Craftsmanship
Redbreast Irish Whiskey is a top choice in premium Irish whiskey. Made at the Midleton Distillery in Cork, it shows off Irish whiskey-making at its best. The Redbreast 12 Year earns the nickname ‘Christmas Whiskey’ and delights whiskey lovers with its smooth taste.
The Redbreast 21 Year is for those who want the best. It costs $399.99 for a 750ml bottle and has a 46% ABV. After 21 years of aging, it has a rich complexity that younger ones don’t.
This whiskey has won gold medals at big competitions like the San Francisco World Spirits Competition and the International Spirits Challenge. These awards prove it’s one of the top Irish whiskeys out there.
Redbreast utilizes both bourbon and sherry casks for aging, resulting in a rich and nuanced flavor profile that reflects its commitment to quality and tradition. Whether you choose the classic 12 Year or the exceptional 21 Year, you’ll experience the best of Irish whiskey.
2. Jameson: Ireland’s Most Famous Export
Jameson Irish Whiskey is a global icon among popular Irish whiskey brands, founded in 1780 in Dublin. By the early 19th century, it was producing a million gallons annually, establishing its prominence in whiskey history.
Today, Jameson is more popular than ever. In 2019, it sold over 8 million cases worldwide. It’s available in more than 130 countries. The United States alone bought 4.2 million cases in 2022, making Jameson the top Irish whiskey there.
Jameson has a wide range of flavors, from the classic Original to the rich Black Barrel. Its quality has won many awards, including gold medals at international spirits competitions.
For those wanting to try Irish whiskey cocktails, Jameson is a great choice. Here are some classic recipes:
- Irish Coffee: Jameson, hot coffee, sugar, and whipped cream
- Jameson Ginger and Lime: A refreshing mix of whiskey, ginger ale, and lime
- Irish Mule: Jameson, ginger beer, and lime juice
Whether enjoyed on its own or in cocktails, Jameson keeps whiskey lovers around the world coming back. It’s clear why it’s Ireland’s most famous export.
3. Bushmills: Over 400 Years of Whiskey Making Tradition
Bushmills Irish Whiskey, founded in 1608, is the oldest distillery in Ireland and a symbol of the country’s rich distilling heritage. Throughout its history, Bushmills has remained dedicated to quality and tradition. Notably, it continues to use malted barley in its whiskey, even when many distilleries shifted to unmalted barley due to taxes. This commitment has helped preserve its unique flavor profile.
Bushmills also weathered the challenges of Prohibition in the 1930s, remaining operational while many distilleries closed. This resilience paid off in the 1950s and 1960s, when exports surged, enhancing its popularity.
The distillery offers a diverse range of whiskeys:
- The Original: A blend of 45% Single Malt and 55% Grain Whiskey
- Black Bush: 80% Single Malt and 20% Grain Whiskey, aged for 8 years
- 10-Year-Old Single Malt: Aged in ex-Bourbon and Sherry casks
- 16-Year-Old: Triple distilled and finished in Ruby Port pipes
- 21-Year-Old: The top choice, aged in Madeira wine drums
With its long tradition and a wide array of offerings, Bushmills has captured the hearts of whiskey lovers around the globe. Its dedication to quality and innovation continues to solidify its position as a leading choice in the spirits world.
Emerging Stars in the Irish Whiskey Scene
The Irish whiskey scene is vibrant, and new brands are making their mark. Teeling Whiskey opened Dublin’s first distillery in 2015 and quickly became a leading producer in the UK. It crafts highly regarded whiskeys while exploring innovative ideas.
Method and Madness, a part of the Midleton Distillery, is shaking things up with unique whiskeys aged in unconventional casks. This approach introduces exciting new flavors. Similarly, West Cork Distillers employs creative methods, utilizing bog oak and seaweed to differentiate their products. Dingle Distillery’s Single Pot Still whiskeys are also gaining attention, highlighting the rising popularity of Irish craft whiskeys.
In the past few decades, the number of Irish whiskey distilleries has surged from just a handful in the ’90s to over 30 today. This expansion has significantly boosted sales in the U.S., with Teeling and other innovative brands playing a key role in this success.
Final Thoughts: Celebrating the Rich Heritage of Irish Whiskey
The renaissance of Irish whiskey is a celebration of its rich heritage and timeless allure. From its storied past to the vibrant present, Irish whiskey offers an incredible diversity of flavors and styles.
Our curated selection features beloved classics like Redbreast, Jameson, and Bushmills. It also includes innovative newcomers who are shaking up the scene. Whether you’re a seasoned aficionado or just dipping your toes into the world of whiskey, there’s never been a better time to embark on this flavorful journey.
Curious about how the best Irish whiskey brands stack up against Scotland’s finest? Dive into the rich world of whiskies at Scotland Whisky. Here, you can explore the unique characteristics and traditions of both Irish and Scottish whiskeys. From tasting notes to distillery histories, we’ve got everything you need to enhance your whiskey journey.
Visit us and discover your next favorite pour while expanding your knowledge about these two incredible whiskey regions! Cheers to new adventures in flavor!