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Irish Whiskey - a Guide for Beginners in Celebration of International Irish Whiskey Day

February 28, 2023

The founding location of Irish whiskey isn’t a mystery. But did you know that this famous tipple has been around since the 1200s?!

Join seasoned Irish whiskey lovers in celebrating International Irish Whiskey Day on March 3rd, 2023.

Whiskey vs. Whisky: How Irish Whiskey Differs from Other Whiskies

The difference between Irish whiskey and other whiskies, such as Scotch and Bourbon, goes beyond the spelling. 

1. Whisky refers to beverages produced in Scotland, Canada, and Japan. 

2. Whiskey refers to grain-based spirits produced in Ireland and America. 

3. Irish whiskey is distilled from barley, whereas American whiskeys use corn, wheat, and/or rye. 

4. Scotch whisky is distilled twice, but the Irish tipple is distilled three times.

Best Ways to Drink Irish Whiskey

There are no hard and fast rules for how to drink Irish whiskey or any other beverage these days. You can drink what you like, when you want, and in the way that provides the most enjoyment. However, with different spirits, there are tips and tricks for making the most of your taste experience.

Irish Whiskey is Best Enjoyed Neat

Neat is best. However, some enthusiasts will add a few drops of water to Irish whiskey to help develop the flavors and provide a smoother finish.

• Pour the amber liquid into a small glass. Lowball and whiskey tumblers are both suitable options

• Give the glass a good swirl to release the aromas into the neck of the glass

• Put your nose to the edge of the glass to take a good sniff of the intricate fragrances, and then take a small sip

• Savor the flavors and ponder the nuances

Much time, consideration, and effort go into producing spirits like Irish whiskey. Respect the makers by being thoughtful and taking time when imbibing these beverages.

Can I Drink Irish Whiskey “On the Rocks”? 

If you're a beginner whiskey drinker, adding a block or two of ice to your whiskey tumbler may make your sipping smoother. The cooler temperature will take the edge off the harshness. However, you might sacrifice some of the complexity of the drink’s flavor profile.

How About an Irish Whiskey Cocktail?

The warmth and complexity of Irish whiskey make it a favorite for mixologists. The most popular cocktails featuring the Emerald Isle spirit are the Old Fashioned and the Manhattan. The Old Fashioned is one of the easiest cocktails to make and a great way to enjoy Irish whiskey:

• Splash three dashes of Angostura bitters onto a sugar cube in a whiskey tumbler.

• Add a few splashes of mineral water, and stir to dissolve the sugar.

• Fill the glass with ice cubes.

• Add 1 ½ ounces of Irish whiskey.

• Garnish with an orange slice and a red glace cherry.

Cheers to Irish Whiskey!

Renowned for its smooth texture and complex flavors, it's no surprise that Irish whiskey has gained so much popularity in recent decades. 

Whether you're new to the world of whisk(e)y or a seasoned imbiber, show us how you celebrate International Irish Whiskey Day on March 3rd, 2023. Follow Next Century Spirits on Instagram, tag us in your Whiskey Day pics, and tell us what you love the most about Irish whiskey!