Are you looking for a new Irish whiskey to enjoy, but aren’t sure what brand to purchase from? You aren’t alone! We are frequently asked about the best Irish whiskey brands to choose from, and we are here with a handy guide to help you. We have listed the 5 best Irish whiskey brands to buy from, helping you to narrow your choice and find the perfect whiskey to enjoy today. 

1.Redbreast 12 Year 

Redbreast 12 is a hugely popular Irish whiskey, having been made for over 100 years. Redbreast offers several types of whiskey, but their 12 Year is one of the best, especially if you are on a budget. The single pot still whiskey is perfect for first-time whiskey drinkers and more experienced whiskey drinkers who enjoy a smooth and spicy taste. It is made in fruit sherry casks to give it notes of dried fruits, spices, and marzipan. 

The key facts you need about this whiskey are: 

  • Where it’s made – The Midleton Distillery, Cork 
  • Its smell/nose – spicy and fruity with notes of toasted wood 
  • Its taste – smooth with sherry, fruity, spicy, and toasted notes 
  • It’s best for – first-time and experienced whiskey drinkers

2.Teeling Single Grain Irish Whiskey 

Teeling Whiskey Distillery is the first new whiskey distillery in Dublin for 125 years, and it has already established itself as a popular whiskey brand. Opening in 2015, it has maintained a buzz around its whiskies, especially their Single Grain whiskey, which matures in Californian Cabernet Sauvignon casks. This maturation gives it a sweet and light taste, but still packs plenty of flavour. After one sip, you will see why it has become one of the most popular Irish whiskies in recent years! It’s easy to drink, without the harsh finish that you typically find with whiskey. 

You need to know the following about this whiskey: 

  • Where it’s made – Teeling whiskey distillery, Dublin
  • Its smell/nose – spicy and fruity with a sweet and sugary undertone 
  • Its taste – smooth with spice, rich berry, and notes from red wine barrels 
  • It’s best for –  anyone looking for a sweet and easy-to-sip whiskey 

3.Bushmills 21 Year Single Malt Irish Whiskey 

Bushmills is another well-known Irish whiskey brand that we recommend checking out. They have been making whiskey for 400 years, so you can expect to enjoy some of the best Irish whiskey on the market! They use water sourced from the River Bush and Oloroso sherry and bourbon seasoned casks to create their unique, 21-year single malt. This isn’t the cheapest whiskey brand, but if you are looking for a high-end whiskey to enjoy or gift, it can be the perfect option. 

Its toffee, honey, spiced fruit, and dark mocha notes make it the perfect whiskey for many drinkers, while its long finish is ideal for experienced whiskey drinkers. 

You need to know the following before purchasing: 

  • Where it’s made – The Old Bushmills Distillery, Antrim 
  • Its smell/nose – honey, ripe fruit, and sweet hazelnuts 
  • Its taste – raisins, dark chocolate, vanilla, and toasted wood 
  • It’s best for – drinkers with an experienced palate 

4.Jameson

It’s impossible to discuss Irish whiskey without mentioning Jameson! They have been making whiskey since 1780 and have remained a popular choice among whiskey drinkers. Over the years, their brand has expanded and experimented with different types of whiskey, but their original remains one of the most popular. 

With every sip, you can enjoy notes of orchard fruits, vanilla, and a medium-length finish of honey and spice. Jameson is perfect for sipping or drinking straight, but you can also add a little lime or ginger to enhance the flavours. 

Before buying Jameson whiskey, you need to know: 

  • Where it’s made – The Middleton Distillery, Cork 
  • Its smell/nose – light floral with sweet and spicy wood notes 
  • Its taste – sweet sherry, vanilla, nutty, and spicy notes 
  • It’s best for – anyone wanting an affordable and easy-to-sip whiskey 

5.Roe & Co. 

Roe & Co. is another new face in Irish whiskey, beginning their distillery in 2017. They landed on the scene with flashy marketing campaigns and a 45% blended Irish whiskey that has amassed a cult following. It is rich and creamy while remaining a little spicy too. It’s a little more upmarket than the budget options we have mentioned, while remaining incredibly easy to drink and suitable for everyone. 

The key facts you need to know about Roe & Co include: 

  •  Where it’s made – The Roe & Co Distillery, Dublin
  • Its smell/nose – rich and creamy with vanilla and cinnamon
  • Its taste – spice and mellow spun sugar with spiced pears and vanilla 
  • It’s best for – anyone looking for an easy-to-drink and flavourful whiskey 

Find your new Irish whiskey today

While some of the brands on our list are well-known, others are new and emerging, allowing you to find a trusted or new and enjoyable Irish whiskey. When choosing your Irish whiskey brand, we recommend checking out The Whisky Club, who offer subscriptions of new and classic Irish whiskey delivered to your door. You can also use their site to track down limited edition and rare Irish whiskey to add to your collection, with an option for every budget and taste preference. Check them out today to find the best Irish whiskey, with many options from the five brands we outlined today.