Irish whiskey has a rich history and a character all its own. Known for its smooth, approachable nature, let’s explore the main types you’re likely to encounter:
Blended
The most common type of Irish whiskey, blends combine single malt and grain whiskeys from various distilleries. They’re known for their smooth, easy-drinking nature, making them great for newcomers to the whiskey world. Jameson, the world’s best-selling Irish whiskey, is a blend.
Single Malt
Similar to Scotch single malt, Irish single malt whiskey is made from 100% malted barley at a single distillery. However, Irish single malts are typically triple-distilled (as opposed to the double distillation common in Scotland), resulting in a smoother, lighter spirit. Brands like Bushmills and Connemara fall into this category.
Single Pot Still
Single pot still whiskey is unique to Ireland and is made from a mixture of malted and unmalted barley. It’s distilled in traditional copper pot stills, giving it a distinctive, often spicy character with a creamy mouthfeel. Redbreast and Green Spot are well-known examples of this style.
Single Grain
Made from corn or wheat with a small amount of malted barley, single grain Irish whiskey is lighter and sweeter than its malt counterparts. It’s often used in blends but can also be enjoyed on its own. Teeling Single Grain is a popular example.
Key characteristics of Irish whiskey
Distilled, aged and bottled in Ireland
Single malts & pot still whiskeys are pot distilled (often triple distilled)
Single pot still whiskey use malted & unmalted barley
Unmalted barley gives more spicy flavours
Few Irish whiskeys are peated (not as common as Scotch)
Grain whiskies (used in blends) are typically column distilled
Aged for 3 years minimum
40% ABV minimum (80 proof)
