Bushmills Distillery: The Timeless Spirit of Irish Single Malt

Nestled on the rugged northern coast of Northern Ireland, Bushmills Distillery stands as a bastion of Irish whiskey heritage. With a license to distil granted in 1608, it is widely considered the oldest licensed whiskey distillery in the world. Over four centuries later, Bushmills remains a name synonymous with tradition, craftsmanship, and an unwavering commitment to quality, especially when it comes to single malt Irish whiskey.

While many associate Irish whiskey with triple-distilled blends, Bushmills is unique in its focus on 100% malted barley whiskies, distilled in copper pot stills and matured in carefully selected casks. The distillery’s core range of single malts showcases the diversity and elegance that can be achieved in Irish whiskey when tradition is upheld with a modern touch. Only recently they have built a new still house with state of the art equipment to compliment the existing stills and double their capacity to make whiskey.

They make quite a few different whiskies at the distillery, but they have some expressions which will always be available.

The Core Range: A Journey Through Time

Bushmills’ core single malt lineup is anchored by three age-statement expressions: the 10 Year Old, 16 Year Old, and 21 Year Old.

Bushmills 10 Year Old is triple distilled and matured primarily in bourbon casks with a hint of sherry influence. It’s known for its light, honeyed character, with soft fruit notes, vanilla, and a smooth, clean finish. Perfect for those discovering Irish single malts for the first time.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £35

Bushmills 16 Year Old introduces a more complex profile, being matured in a combination of bourbon and sherry casks before a final finish in port wine pipes. This creates layers of dried fruit, spice, and toasted nuts—a whiskey with depth and a velvet texture.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £87.95

Bushmills 21 Year Old, the pinnacle of the core range, is aged in both bourbon and sherry casks for 19 years, then finished for two years in Madeira casks. It’s rich, layered, and luxurious, with dark chocolate, tropical fruit, and a hint of smoke on the palate.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £198

These expressions together form a smooth progression of age, complexity, and influence from wood, reflecting Bushmills’ deep understanding of cask maturation.

They recently launched Bushmills 15 year old which is matured exclusively in ex bourbon barrels and was an expression aimed at the more affordable end of the Irish Whiskey category and can be found in supermarkets.

The Causeway Collection: A Collector’s Dream

For those seeking rarity and innovation, Bushmills offers the Causeway Collection, a limited series of rare single malt releases named after the nearby Giant’s Causeway. This collection celebrates bold maturation choices and exceptional age statements, often including cask-strength bottlings finished in rare casks like cognac, sauternes, and even Tokai.

Each release is non-chill filtered and bottled at natural strength, showcasing the distillery’s adventurous side without compromising its refined house style. The Causeway Collection has become a target for collectors and enthusiasts, representing some of the finest and most daring Irish whiskeys ever bottled.

Millennium Bottlings: A Time Capsule of Excellence

In the year 2000, Bushmills released a series of Millennium bottlings, single casks laid down in 1975 and bottled 25 years later to mark the turn of the century. These bottlings are revered today for their rarity and the pristine quality of the spirit. Collectors fortunate enough to own one prize them not only for their historical significance but for their incredible depth of flavour, drawn from long years in wood.

The 46-Year-Old: A New Benchmark

In 2023, Bushmills made headlines with the release of its 46-Year-Old Single Malt, the oldest expression ever bottled by the distillery. Matured in oloroso sherry butts and bourbon barrels, this whiskey is a testament to the patience and care that define Bushmills. With only a few hundred bottles available globally, it’s not just a whiskey, it’s a celebration of Bushmills' past and future.

Master Blender Alex Thomas in the Bushmills still house with Bushmills 46 Year old

At 46 years, this whiskey displays deep mahogany hues, a nose of dried fig, rich oak, and old leather, and a palate bursting with dark chocolate, spiced fruitcake, and a long, warming finish. It’s a release that firmly places Bushmills among the top-tier luxury distilleries in the world.

Legacy and Innovation

What makes Bushmills remarkable is its ability to balance tradition with innovation. From the approachable sweetness of its 10 Year Old to the daring finishes in the Causeway Collection and the near-mythical prestige of its 46-Year-Old, the distillery has proven that Irish whiskey is far from a one-note category.

Bushmills continues to be a guardian of Irish whiskey history while pushing its boundaries. Whether you're a newcomer exploring the elegance of Irish single malts or a collector seeking rare treasures, Bushmills offers a spectrum of experiences, each one rooted in centuries of craftsmanship. And with fathers day fast approaching, a bottle of Bushmills would certainly show your appreciation.

 Words by Colin Hampden-White

Whisky vs Whiskey - A Brief History and Overview

Whisky is a spirit with a large historical and cultural significance, with many people having flown its flag to make it the globally known spirit it is today. Its history and origin, however, are muddied and up for debate (the whisky itself probably did not help either). Both the Scots and the Irish claim to be the inventors of it, but there is insufficient evidence to favour either party in the debate.

Whisky/Whiskey comes from the old Gaelic ‘uisge beatha’, or ‘usquebaugh’, meaning ‘water of life’, similar to the Scandinavian ‘aquavitae’. While there is some evidence suggesting the technique of distillation was brought over to the British Isles by Christian missionary monks, it is insufficient to disprove that Scottish or Irish farmers did not discover the technique of distillation themselves. However, the oldest evidence of distillation we have can be traced back to as far as 2000 B.C. in ancient Mesopotamia (modern-day Iraq and Syria) as a way to produce perfumes and aromatisers. Hence, it is more than likely the former is the case, and lacking the climate for vineyards, opted to ferment grain, leading to the first versions of what we now know as whisky.

While we are unsure who made this wonderful liquid first, there are key differences between Scotch and Irish whiskies, from their raw materials to distillation and maturation.

Irish v Scottish

Peated Scotch Whiskey - Caol Ila 12 YO

Size: 700ml
ABV: 43%
Find here: £55

Unpeated Scotch Whiskey - Balvenie Double Wood 12 YO

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £43.95

Irish Whiskey - Redbreast 12 YO

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £49.95

Blends

The Scots and Irish also produce many blended whiskies, a mix of multiple liquids, from multiple distilleries (malt, grain, and rye whiskies all included!) within the same geographical region. These liquids are masterfully selected by a master blender and proportioned expertly to produce a whisky that is greater than the sum of its parts.

A few years ago, I had the privilege of having Emma Walker, master blender of her namesake Johnnie Walker, perch up at the bar of the prep room while I was working a prep shift. This allowed me unfiltered access to one of the greatest minds in the modern whisky world and she (to my benefit) oversimplified what she does for work and explained it as:

“Not too dissimilar to making a cocktail. The same way you would balance a cocktail behind a bar using spirits, liqueurs, juices, and syrups. In the blending room we take the same approach, the only difference is we are tasked with balancing whisky with, well, more whisky.”

Blended Scotch Whiskey - Johnnie Walker Black Label

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £24.99

Blended Irish Whiskey -Tullamore D.E.W.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £24.64

The United States

As British colonisers started to land and settle in the Americas, specifically Kentucky, they realised the climate in the Southeast area of the United States was not conducive to the cultivation of barley. To work around this, they started distilling whiskey from corn, which later became known as the bourbon we know and love today.

Bourbon must be made in the United States using at least 51% corn in the mash bill. To be considered bourbon, it must also be distilled to no more than 80% ABV, bottled at a minimum of 40% ABV, and aged in charred virgin oak barrels with no minimum maturation period. However, to be considered “straight bourbon”, it must be aged for a minimum of two years.

Rye Whiskey has very similar production process specifications to Bourbon, with the same requirement of at least 51% Rye in the mash bill to be considered as such. The key difference in flavours, comes from the raw materials used in the production process. Bourbon tends to be more full-bodied and sweeter, while Ryes are generally drier, spicier, and have an underlying bready note.

There is also Tennessee whiskey, which is akin to bourbon in many of its processes, to the point where most Tenessee whiskies meet the requirements for bourbon. The key difference is that all Tennessee whiskies must be filtered using the Lincoln County Process which entails filtering (or steeping) the new-make spirit in charcoal chips before aging. However, many producers do not label themselves as such and prefer to label their products as Tennessee Whiskey.

Rye Whiskey - Rittenhouse Straight Rye

Size: 700ml
ABV: 50%
Find here: £39.99

Bourbon Whiskey - Buffalo Trace Bourbon

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £26.68

Tennessee Whiskey - Daddy Rack Straight Tennessee Whiskey

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £39.99

Canada

Canadian whisky later joined the party as American and European immigrants used their experience in distilling wheat and rye to preserve surplus grain in attempts to prevent spoilage. This was done in improvised stills and resulted in inconsistent, and uncontrolled new-make spirits, drank unaged by the local market. Commercial whisky production in Canada started when John Molson purchased a copper pot still initially used to distill rum.

Canadian whisky has the most relaxed controls in the world of whisky as the regulations lack any strict stipulations in terms of mash bill content and additives. As per Canada’s Food and Drugs Act, to be called Canadian whisky the liquid must "be mashed, distilled and aged in Canada", "be aged in small wood vessels for not less than three years", "contain not less than 40 percent alcohol by volume" and "may contain caramel and flavouring". However, distillers must not veer too far away from the original form as the liquid must "possess the aroma, taste and character generally attributed to Canadian whisky."

Canadian Whiskey - Lot 40 Rye Whisky

Size: 700ml
ABV: 43%
Find here: £37.99

Japan

The advent of Japanese whisky can be attributed to two main characters, Shinjiro Torii and Masataka Taketsuru. Torii was a pharmaceutical wholesaler by trade who made a profit by importing Western world liquor with his company “Akadama Port Wine”, named after the Portuguese fortified wine. Torii then set his sights on creating a Japanese whisky to rival that made in Scotland, Ireland, and the United States, and opened the distillery which would later be known as Yamazaki.

Torii hired Taketsuru, who had honed the art of making whisky in Scotland and used this knowledge to help establish the Yamazaki distillery as a successful one, before parting ways with the company in 1934 to start his own company Dainipponkaju, which would later become Nikka.

The influence these two people had on Japanese whisky resulted in it being the closest thing to Scotch whisky you can get outside Scotland. With very similar legal requirements to its Scottish counterpart, the key flavour differences come from the two countries' environmental differences.

Japanese Single Malt Whisky - Yamazaki 12 YO

Size: 700ml
ABV: 43%
Find here: £139.95

Japanese Blended Whisky - Toki Blended

Size: 700ml
ABV: 43%
Find here: £31.89

New World Whiskies

As whisky is currently enjoying another moment in the spotlight, new kids on the block, from different corners of the globe, are looking to stamp their mark on the whisk(e)y industry. Notably, these include Taiwan, France, Germany, Australia, and China, but as of 2022, over 30 countries are producing new world whiskies.

French - Domaine des Hautes Glaces Epistémè

Size: 500ml
ABV: 47%
Find here: £72.24

Chinese - Goalong 5 YO

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £52.95

Ultimately, the choice of spelling it as whisky or whiskey boils down to traditional use and does not depict any discrepancies in raw materials, production process, or flavours. Scotland, Japan, and Canada all make whisky that tastes remarkably different from one another, within the United States of America alone there are three variations of whiskey with unique processes and flavour profiles.

By Fowwaz Ansari

7 Bottles of Irish Whiskey You Need in Your Glass

The journey Irish Whiskey has been on is quite incredible. From the 19th century golden age where it was deemed the finest and most popular spirit on the planet, to producing just 1% of the world’s supply only a hundred years or so later.

Fortunately, it’s sprung out of the doldrums in style, and decades of investment and innovation has seen distilleries bloom all over. Irish Whiskey is back where it belongs, delivering the quintessential fruity lightness it’s known for, as well as delightful wine-finishes and wafts of smoke.

So, if you’re celebrating St. Patrick's Day on March 17th or just want to expand your emerald isle collections with some gems, these are seven bottles you need in your glass.

Jatt Life Blended Irish Whiskey

From the same folks at Jatt Life Vodka comes this blended Irish whiskey. Aged in virgin oak and sherry casks, this is very characterful with luscious, rich dried fruits intertwining with woody spice. It’s a classic Irish whiskey expression with soft fruitiness, but wonderfully smooth and with impressive longevity too.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £27.27

Jameson Caskmates Stout Edition Whiskey

From the best-selling Irish whiskey producer in the world, Jameson’s stout edition has a seductive bourbon nose with a little creamy chocolate dressing the fresher notes. These continue in the mouth with a touch of coffee, as the succulent viscosity becomes noticeable. Warm spices feature too, most prominently cinnamon. The old whiskey barrels had previously been used to age stout from Cork’s Franciscan Well brewery, and the results are quite spectacular – especially for the price.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £28.95

Proclamation Blended Irish Whiskey

A glass of this is a true celebration of Ireland’s independence, from the label to the 40.7% ABV, a nod to the 7 signatures signing the famous 1916 document. But what about the liquid itself? Full-bodied and silky smooth, it’s matured in ex-Bourbon casks before a subtle sherry finish. The results combine majestically with fruity caramel, full-bodied brioche notes and bitter toasted coffee for balance. Delicious.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40.7%
Find here: £28.88

Tyrconnell Irish Whiskey

Top notch single malt now with the legendary Tyrconnell. The labels had a stylish rebrand, and the alcohol has been bumped up from 40% too. It’s softly integrated however with no harshness whatsoever. It’s fruity and light, but unlike most Irish whiskeys brings citrus over sweetness. The rich vanilla fudge lingers forever it seems, beyond even the oaky spice.  A benchmark.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 43%
Find here: £33.99 (usually more!)

Sliabh Liag The Legendary Dark Silkie Irish Whiskey

As captivating as the legendary silkies of Ireland themselves, we love this Donegal distillery. Their lighter expression is beautiful, but this smoky number deserves some serious love too. Peat was somewhat lost from Irish whiskey for a long time, but this harks back to the golden age with triple-distilled peated malt aged in sherry casks, before joining bourbon-matured and virgin oak-matured whiskies. The result is so harmonious, with those rich fruits still coming through, as well as salted chocolate and mellow wafts of smoke balancing out perfectly.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 46%
Find here: £35.37 (usually more!)

Kinahan’s The Kasc Project Whiskey

Something different here. The bottle may say Irish Whiskey, but The Kasc Project is actually something of a globe trotter. Delving into the world of hybrid casks, Portuguese, American, French, Hungarian oak, and chestnut, yes that’s five different woods, are used for ageing. All combined in one barrel, it’s no surprise that the alluring honey colouring reveals so much flavour. Expect oaky treacle on the nose, stewed apples and sultanas, nutty vanilla and peppery warmth on the palate, and a dry finish with liquorice. It's really interesting and throws up Bourbon and Cognac comparisons.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 43%
Find here: £38.75

Bushmills 16 Year Old Whiskey

More expensive than our other whiskies, Bushmills’ 16 year old expression more than lives up to its price tag. It begins life in Bourbon casks, continues along to sherry before a final stint in Port, expanding its breadth of delicious flavour with each step. Think honey and stone fruits on the nose, spilling over into a summery palate of lofty tropical flavours, silky honey, and rich dried fruits. The oily viscosity coats your mouth wonderfully as the rising mocha notes and nutty spice lingers on and on. So much to explore.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £89.81

If you want to learn more about the fascinating world of Irish whiskey, then let us remind you of The Three Drinkers in Ireland, when we explored the beauty of the Emerald Isle.

Last Minute Gift Ideas for Drinks Lovers: Distillery Tours in the UK & Ireland

Distillery and winery tours make for amazing gifts for anyone who’s into their drinks, and they’re usually not as expensive as you might think. Getting up close and personal with whisky, gin or wine production really brings the drink to life, and these tours from across England, Wales, Scotland and Ireland do exactly that, each with rave reviews and in spectacular locations.

Whisky Distillery Tours

Jameson Distillery Bow Street, Dublin

This place is an absolute monument to Irish Whiskey. If you didn’t know, then Jameson is the best-selling Irish whiskey in the world, so it’s no surprise that they have a top notch set up to explore it. Conveniently, it’s also in Dublin so easy to get to. John Jameson founded this former factory in 1780, and you can tailor your experience there by budget and activities. Options include all kinds of tasting sessions at the Jameson centrepiece bar, how to blend your own whiskey, a big focus on whiskey cocktails, and all the rich history too.

Find more info here

Glenfiddich, Dufftown

William Grant laid the first stones to this distillery in 1886, making it one of the oldest family-owned Scotch whisky distilleries going. It’s world-renowned, and the 35-hectare site in the Valley of the Deer (between Aberdeen and Inverness) is one of the most impressive distilleries to explore. Explore picturesque pagodas, a traditional aging warehouse, giant stillhouses and bottling lines, with rich details every step of the way, that only come with so much heritage and experience. The guides have a great reputation, opening up the world of Glenfiddich for you, and all before a generous taste of the good stuff – golden Speyside Scotch. There are so many wonderful distilleries, but if we have to pick one, this is probably the one to visit.

Find more info here

Penderyn, Brecon Beacons

Though they have two other distilleries in Swansea and Llandudno, Brecon Beacons is the original 2004 site for Penderyn, the distillery that brought whisky back to Wales. This award-winning 1-hour tour welcomes more than 40,000 visitors a year to the easy-on-the-eye Brecon Beacons. Visitors see everything – the mill, the mash turn, the state-of-the-art stills, and it’s all finished with a sample of the acclaimed whisky itself. It’s not got centuries behind it like some distilleries in the UK, but it’s making history all the same.

Find more info here

The English Distillery, Norfolk

Just like Wales, whisky distilleries have been popping up in England over the last two decades, and the more relaxed manufacturing rules and warmer climate allow for different, experimental whiskies. When King (then Prince) Charles opened The English Distillery in rural Norfolk in 2005, it was the first of its kind in a century. A prolific and acclaimed malt whisky producer, the tour operates 7 days a week, showcasing the magnificent distilling floor, barrel warehouse and more. The tour is known for devilish detail whilst also being easy to follow, and those that don’t wish to take part can take a stroll by the stunning nearby river.

Find more info here

Gin Distillery Tours

Bombay Sapphire Distillery, Hampshire

World-famous, the Bombay Sapphire Distillery in Hampshire is a must for any gin lover. The site once housed a Victorian paper mill, and the derelict redbrick has been intertwined with modern architectural beauty, like the glasshouse centrepiece, which contains all the Bombay botanicals. The reviews are impressive, the pictures are stunning, and a recent 2021 upgrade brought in a cinema room and refreshed cocktail menu to match the interactive cocktail bar. It’s a botanical paradise, exploring the masterful details of how the ingredients become the liquid, as well as fascinating ecology and sustainability tricks. There are plenty of tour options too for flexibility.

Find more info here

Edinburgh Gin, Edinburgh

This is the place to go for insight into the Scottish capital’s rich history with juniper, and you also get to visit one of the most stunning cities in Europe. The working distillery has such an atmosphere that its one of the top ranked attractions a city full of them. The bar and visitor centre is subterranean enhancing the vibe, where you can taste their award-winning gins (the Rhubarb is a favourite of ours), and exactly what you try (or your giftee if you’re still feeling selfless) is up to you – there’s chocolate pairings, mixology adventures, or the classic distillery tasting experience.

Find more info here

Gower Gin, Swansea

We love Gower’s GWYR gin for its pure feel, and it turns out that their tour experience is just as good. A far cry form giant distillery tours, this is intimate. The husband-and-wife team behind this Welsh gin started in a ‘bike shed’ at the end of their garden, and still do things on a small scale at their charming micro-distillery. Foraged botanicals like gorse flower, sea buckthorn and linen meet quirky additions such as teas and cubeb pepper, and everything is inspired by the seaside or Welsh influences. They now have their peaceful tasting garden available… and you get all of that for free! Yep, free. So if you’re gifting it, maybe you can give them money to buy a bottle at the end… because they’ll definitely want to.

Find more info here

Dingle Distillery, County Kerry

The great thing about Dingle Distillery in Ireland is that it’s not just award-winning gin produced there, but whiskey and vodka too, so you get a unique insight into what it takes to master different spirits up close. The generous guided tour covers the entire production process, from working with local farms to finessing the final product… which you will get to sample of course. It’s a really well put together enthusiastic and informative experience, and the local port town of Dingle is well worth a visit too.

Find more info here

Winery and Vineyard Tours

Simpsons Estate, Kent

If anywhere is the home of English wine, it has to be Kent. Nestled covertly amongst the North Downs slopes, not far from Canterbury, lies the Simpsons Estate, headed up by Charles and Ruth, veterans of the English wine revival. The area itself is already an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and that’s before the vineyard, where you’ll walk the iconic Roman Road and learn everything from in the vine to wine process. To finish, the Glass House Tasting Room looks out over the winery, where visitors can try the traditional method fizz or innovative 100% Pinot Meunier. The sunset session is very memorable indeed, if it’s available.

Find more info here

Camel Valley, Cornwall

This stunning Cornish vineyard was the first in the UK to be awarded a PDO (Protected Designation Origin) from the EU for its Darnibole vineyard, so it really is special and unique. It’s been refined since the 80s, when English wine was dismissed by many… but they are one of the wineries that have blazed a trail for it. Their Cornwall Brut is famous, they produce a range of red, white, and sparkling wines. Different tastings and tours can be booked, from Daily Guides which cover the fascinating fundamentals of winemaking, to the special Grand Tour.

Find more info here

Glyndwr Vineyard, Wales

In the utterly beautiful Vale of Glenmorgan is Wales’ oldest vineyard, Glyndwr Vineyard, family run since 1979. Their production portfolio is expansive, and features wines that have been picked for the Parliament, the Ryder Cup and NATO. The quaint setting would make for a delightful walk even without the vineyard, but the tour is such good value. The owner does the tour, so knows the place inside out, from the history to the vines to the lamas also on site! The reviews speak for themselves – the tour is so informative, personal and generous, and the setting couldn’t be prettier.

Find more info here

Wicklow Wines, Ireland

You might not think of Ireland when you think of wineries, but Wicklow Wines are the exception. They’ve been lauded over by TripAdvisor, Vogue, Lonely Planet and Michelin star restaurants, offering a behind-the-scenes tour of their small, working winery. They make incredible berried wines, which will be tasted alongside Irish cheeses and chocolates. It was even voted the 2nd best food and drink experience in Ireland!

Find more info here

Of course, this is just a taste of some of the best wineries, vineyards and distilleries in the UK and Ireland, but there are more offering fabulous experiences, many of which we visited in previous series of The Three Drinkers! You can find more Scotch Whisky tours here, more Irish Whiskey tours here, and more English wineries here!

What is Poitín and What Should I Try?

What is Poitín?

Poitín, pronounced puh-cheen, and derived from, ‘little pot’ (referring to the pot still distillation technique), is an unaged spirit from Ireland, usually made from potatoes or barley… and its history is fascinating.

The history of Poitín

Known as Irish Moonshine, Poitín is the precursor to whiskey, being used as currency, medicine and of course, as a spirit since at least the 6th century. It’s hugely varied, but has always been a farm spirit, made in a single pot still using whatever starch is around the person making it. That now has to be potato, cereals, grain, whey, sugar beet or molasses, but historically it’s been milk and even bark!

It was outlawed in 1661 after a Irish spirits tax, and not overturned until, staggeringly, 1987, so it was completely unregulated and therefore massively versatile for centuries. It’s a huge part of Irish identity and history, and these days Poitín is brewed all over Ireland, as we found out when we went there for The Three Drinkers in Ireland.

Mixologists and adventurous drinkers are beginning to experiment with Poitín as it pops up on more and more bar menus, but there are still misconceptions and unknowns about it, especially outside of Ireland. Some people still think it’s illegal, some people think it’s only made from potatoes, and perhaps most damaging of all, it is seen by some as being poorly distilled. Of course, in the past, being illegal and made in many cases by amateurs, this was often the case. Nowadays though, it is going the way of mezcal, being expertly made and experiencing a resurgence, and all whilst celebrating its deep historical roots.

Which Poitín should I try?

Micil Irish Poitín

This takes is a complex Poitín with a herbal feel, as the botanicals are pot distilled – bog myrtyle, hawberry, heather and locally-picked Connemara bogbean are all included for intriguing kicks of florality and spice.

Size: 500ml
ABV: 44%
Find here: £33.94

Killowen Poitin

A far cry from a farmyard botch job, this recipe has been refined for generations using malted grain smoked on site by local turf fires in the handmade kiln of the Mourne family, and blended with unmalted too. It’s earthy, fresh and hits with aniseed, clove, and cinnamon spice. Tonnes of depth without wood maturation.

Size: 500ml
ABV: 48%
Find here: £33.99

Teeling Spirit of Dublin Poitin

A 50/50 split of unmalted and malted barley, this picked up Gold at the Irish Whiskey Masters two years running. The baking notes are sweet, and one sip coats the mouth with a wonderful creamy texture.

Size: 500ml
ABV: 52.5%
Find here: £34.95

Mad March Hare Poitin

Using locally grown barley, Mad March Hare uses a historical recipe, bringing through lemon and lime to show off the diverse range of the spirit. Smooth and malty, this is a curious try indeed.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £35.25

Ban Poitin

Forget ‘Ban Poy-tin’, this is pronounced ‘Bawn Putch-een’. Potatoes, malted barley, and sugar beet go into this traditional spirit with a moreish oily texture, and buckets of sweet spice. The subtle mocha notes are a nice touch too.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 48%
Find here: £41.50

Ballykeefe Poitín

Hailing from County Kilkenny, this eco-friendly Poitín innovatively reuses the heat from its cooling systems across its visitor centre and farm. Most importantly though, it tastes great, with an earthy quality, as well as clean smoothness.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £44.95

If you’re always up for exploring drinks you might have heard about but never tried, check out our other guides, like Mead and Pisco.

The Dead Rabbit, NY : The World’s Most Awarded Pub

If you walked past 30 Walter Street, New York throughout the 1830s, you’d have seen and smelt a dilapidated five-story townhouse, and you’d probably be witnessing the closing down of yet another failed business there.

People that weren’t prepared to give up on it however were The Dead Rabbit gang, who saw the potential of this Manhattan haunt and fought to own their poverty-stricken slum. Remembering the fighting spirit of their leader, boxer, businessman, politician and criminal John Morrissey, The Dead Rabbit opened in 2013 and has overcome a hurricane and a fire to expand and become known as ‘The World’s Most Awarded Pub’.

On the back of making The Cocktail Bar at The Merchant in Belfast the World’s Best Cocktail Bar in 2010, Sean Muldoon teamed up with Bar Manager Jack McGarry and regular customer Conor Allen to take on the most competitive drinking hub on the planet – New York.

Taking inspiration from the world-renowned craic and comfort of the Irish Pub, they set out to make an Irish Bar in New York... the world capital of Irish Bars. With the Dead Rabbits gang concept planned, focusing on authenticity, 19th century drinks and a hybrid of American innovation and Irish tradition, The Dead Rabbit Grocery & Grog finally opened in 2013, winning the Best New Cocktail Bar award. Two years later, it won the coveted World’s Best Cocktail Bar. In 2022, the new went separate ways, but The Dead Rabbit is as alluring as ever… but why?

Well, it boasts a trio of immersive experiences: The Taproom, The Parlor, and the Occasional Room. It's like having a pub for every mood swing, and that's a concept that's hard to beat.

In the Taproom, it's all about the craic. This is the place to revel in traditional Irish pub fare, top-notch cocktails, bottled punches, and, of course, the famous Irish Coffee. Every Sunday, a lively Irish seisiún awaits, making it the perfect end to the week. And whiskey lovers, brace yourselves for a back bar that's a treasure trove of choices.

Now, let's step into The Parlor, the cocktail cathedral of Downtown Manhattan that was once it’s best-kept secret. Here, 16 carefully curated cocktails reign supreme, crafted with house-made ingredients and innovative techniques. Martini, Gimlet, Whiskey Sour, Tiki, Old Fashioned… The Dead Rabbit stamp their signature all over them.

Last but not least, we ascend to The Occasional Room, where tavern traditions take hold as everything combines for a private hire space, accommodating up to 60 guests. Tailored food and drink packages await, making it ideal for swanky New York gatherings.

The Dead Rabbit stands as a testament to the spirit of Irish heritage, with a dash of New York flair, managing to stand out amongst the world’s greatest bars because it caters to whatever you want, from the best pint of Guinness in the city to the smoothest Julep cocktail, from a Sunday roast and Irish Breakfast to Guinness Braised Rib Sliders and Irish Points Oysters, it has everything. ‘Tradition, meet tomorrow’ is the perfect tagline.

30 Water Street, New York, NY, 10004
www.thedeadrabbit.com

12 Of The Best Irish Whiskeys

It doesn’t have to be International Irish Whiskey Day to enjoy some gorgeous Celtic blends but if you need an excuse at all, you’ve got one.

Only a few decades ago, Irish Whiskey production was minimal but the number of distilleries has flourished, as has the quality. From exceptional purist blends to innovative new methods, these are 12 whiskeys blessed with Irish magic that you’ll want in your cabinet.

The Three Drinkers Limited Edition Red Silkie

We couldn’t start anywhere else, could we? Collaborating with the fantastic Sliabh Liag Distillers, we, The Three Drinkers have produced an Irish Whiskey that showcases the subtle smoky style of Irish whiskey alongside classic fruitiness coming from our love for fine wine. Over in County Donegal, the blend is finished in red Pomerol barrels from Clos L’Eglise in Bordeaux creating a velvety, rich profile that is intense with red fruits, candied orange and gently smoked caramel. We absolutely adore it, and whether you’re a whiskey newbie or a seasoned drinker, we really think you will too (if we can be so bold). One last thing, £1 from every purchase goes towards the amazing mental health charity My Black Dog to support a variety of initiatives including free support for those struggling.

Size: UK 700ml
ABV: 46%
Find here: £49.99

Kilbeggan

Set on the banks of the river west of Dublin, Kilbeggan closed in the 50s but the town of the same name rallied to get it up and running again, retaining it as one of the oldest distilleries of its kind in Ireland. It’s also named after one of the 12 Apostles of Ireland who founded a monastery nearby in the 6th century so this place is really steeped in history. The whiskey itself is distilled just twice so it retains that lovely earthy peat and honeyed fruit sweetness. The nutty malt makes for a gorgeously distinct peaty Irish Coffee.

Size: UK 700ml // US 750ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: UK £22.44 // US $21.99

Bushmills Black Bush

Bushmills is the world’s oldest licensed whiskey distillery with a remarkable and tumultuous 400-year history seeing them thrive at the famous Paris Expo of 1889 and survive prohibition, the barley taxes and a catastrophic fire. The craftsmanship has been passed down multiple generations which is part of the reason Black Bush picked up the prestigious top award at The Irish Whiskey Masters in 2013 and a host of other massive awards. It’s a classic caramel grain whiskey with a dollop of sherried malt. Think smooth vanilla, lush dark fruits, and a subtly biscuity zesty finish. The orange notes would make for a top-notch Rob Roy.

Size: UK 700ml //US 750ml
ABV: 40%    
Find here: UK £26.90 // US $34.99

Jameson Crested

You may half recognise this as Jameson’s Crested Ten. Well, it’s undergone a rebrand because of confusion over the name and availability but it’s the same tribute to the first drops bottled at the Bow Street Distillery. There’s so much going on for the money. Expect delicate undertones of sherried fruit, scorched wood and apricot with peach with a touch of spiced nuts rolled in chocolate. It’s tingly with spice, smooth and creamy and the fruity sherry is never far away. Outstandingly smooth and complex for the price. A simple whiskey highball is best to give the liquid room to breathe.

Size: UK 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: UK £26.99

Slane Irish Whiskey

Slane Castle outside Dublin is known for two main things; iconic gigs with the likes of Queen, Bowie, U2, Bob Dylan and Madonna rocking up and Slane Irish Whiskey. Three different casks (virgin oak, Oloroso and seasoned casks that are ex Tennessee whiskey and bourbon) create a remarkably full taste. The mellow butterscotch and vanilla is so inviting and there’s a rich caramelly baking spice on the finish to win you round if you weren’t already. Try replacing the vodka in an Espresso Martini with this for a richer, deeper coffee cake profile.

Size: UK 700ml // US 750ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: UK £24.45 (usually more!) // US $32.99

Proclamation Blended Irish Whiskey

A true Irish Whiskey celebrating the Proclamation and Ireland’s independence... even down to the ABV which is a nod to the 7 signatures on the 1916 document. A glass of history. There’s a touch of fruity caramel and crème brulée from the bourbon maturation and sherry finish.  An utterly delicious and characterful glass of history that would serve well as a sweeter Whiskey Sour.

Size: UK 700ml
ABV: 40.7%
Find here: UK £27.49

Tyconnell Irish Whiskey

Tyconnell became one of the bestselling whiskeys in the US but prohibition hit them hard and they fell away. In the 21st century, they’ve enjoyed a Lazarus-esque revival and stylish redesign. Every drop of this single malt is super satisfying, with gorgeous, rounded cereal notes, soft vanilla fudge and honey on toast. It’s light with these indulgent flavours though, and not as sweet as it sounds. The mouthfeel in particular is exceptionally moreish. Try Tyconnell for a silky smooth Old Fashioned.

Size: UK 700ml
ABV: 43%
Find here: UK £31.95

The Legendary Dark Silkie Irish Whiskey

We love Donegal’s ligther Silkie Irish Whiskey and the legend of silkies – seals that shapeshifted into beings of irresistible attraction on land. Now, they’re stunning us with their smoky side too. Harking back to 19th-century whiskey of the county, it’s triple-distilled peated single malt that sits in sherry casks, before blending with bourbon-matured single malt and virgin oak-matured grain whiskey – what a mouthful. And what a literal mouthful The Legendary Dark Silkie is too. Gorgeous fruits, confidently smoky with perfect peat. It’s a precision balance of savoury earthy notes and creamy fruit notes. Give it a go in a smoky Ginger Irish Mule for something very interesting indeed.

Size: UK 700ml
ABV: 46%
Find here: £31.95

Kinahan’s The Kasc Project

Diving into the relatively unknown, Kinahan’s The Kask project is exploring hybrid casks, with each constructed from 5 different kinds of wood – Portuguese, American, French, Hungarian oak and chestnut. That’s 5 kinds of wood in 1 barrel. From the first whiff you know there’s so much to explore. Behind that beguiling dark amber are teases of Cognac and Bourbon on the nose. The varied blend is super smooth and delicately sweet, with charred tropical fruits and caramelly chocolate, nuts and winter spices. Everything sits perfectly in this innovative blend so bravo to the experimental Kinahan! It’s sublime in an Old Fashioned providing delicious layers of flavour.

Size: UK 700ml
ABV: 43%
Find here: £33.95

Writers Tears Copper Pot Irish Whiskey

This is an elegant combination of pure pot still and malt whiskeys from an unnamed Cork distillery that’s been plated in Gold awards over the years. Wonderfully light, the sweetness from bold honeyed fruits sits at the fore for a super easy-to-drink whiskey. It’s accessible to newbies with no harshness, but with the depth and quality to be sipped by whiskey lovers too. The honey would offset the lemon of a Whiskey Sour gorgeously if you like it a little less sweet than this sits neat.

Size: UK 700ml // US 750ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: UK £35.94 // US $42.99

Redbreast 12 Year Old

Redbreast are well and truly loved and lauded by Irish Whiskey lovers and rightly so. This delightful single pot is adored by critics, picking up pretty much every top gong you can imagine. In Midleton, malted and unmalted barley are distilled and then matured in the classic combination of American oak ex-bourbon and Oloroso Sherry casks. The results are a really well-rounded body that lasts in the mouth. The smooth nutty taste has some perfect spice that gives way to a creamier marzipan and dried fruit aftertaste. This is absolutely one to savour so serve in a Highball with not too much ice.

Size: UK 700ml // US 750ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: UK £46.99 // US $64.99

Bushmills 16 YEar Old

We’ve another bottling from Bushmills here and what a bottle to end our list on! Aged in Oloroso Sherry and Bourbon casks before being finished in Port pipes this is a stunning dram with so much flavour to explore. There’s a perfectly balanced mix of spices from the bourbon seasoned casks and distinct notes of juicy red fruits, honey and peaches. Normally we’d try anything in a cocktail, but the only thing we’ll be mixing this dram with is an ice cube! NOM!

Size: UK 700ml // US 750ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: UK £82.49 // US $145.99

If you’re in the mood to go further afield then check out our Worldwide Whiskies That Stand Out for Under £40.

From Cocktails to Food: 4 Deliciously Different Ways to Enjoy Guinness

With St. Patrick’s’ Day coming up, the sight of ebony nectar-filling glasses will be everywhere we look, but can the same now be said for that on any other day? Towards the end of 2022, Guinness officially became the most popular pint in Britain, overtaking Carling. One in every nine pints in fact!

If you’ve long been loving the black stuff, then we’ve got some fantastic cocktails and recipes for you that place it centre stage. And if you’ve never been drawn to a pint, then perhaps these will hit the spot for you instead? They’re recommended by Guinness themselves and they should know best after all!

GUINNESS COCKTAILS

The Wilde Oscar

In honour of the poet and playwright extraordinaire, the inclusion of Guinness here makes for a darker, creamier twist on an Old Fashioned. A super smooth and creamy mix, the oak of the bourbon and coffee chocolate Guinness notes pair delightfully with a splash of syrup lifting the hoppy bitterness. This is a hearty cocktail with layers and layers of notes in every sip so take your time!

Ingredients
45ml Bourbon (like Bulleit)
30ml Guinness
15ml syrup
Dash of bitters (botanical)
Orange peel and maraschino cherry (garnish)

Method
Stir everything except the garnish together in an ice filled mixing glass and strain over a large ice cube before adding the inviting garnish.

Black Velvet

This cocktail has one of the best backstories around. In 1861, Queen Victoria and the country mourned the death of her husband Prince Albert. So mournful was the mood, that a London steward felt that even the drinks should be black and if you need a black drink, there’s only one place to go. They’re a curious coupling, with the hoppy silk of the Guinness and the effervescent lightness of the bubbly being a surprisingly moreish combo.

Ingredients
90ml Champagne (Crémant works fine too)
90ml Guinness

Method
Unbelievably simple aside from one small bit of bartending magic. First, fill your flute with Champagne and then top up with Guinness by pouring it over the back of a spoon to layer the cocktail nicely. Enjoy!

GUINNESS RECIPES

Guinness Shepherd’s Pie

Ireland claims Shepherd’s Pie as its own, dating back to the 1700s, and by including its most famous drink, this really is the ultimate St. Patrick’s dish. The depth of flavour provided by the Guinness is surprising in just how much of a difference it makes, and the hearty combination of creamy mash, rich meat and malty beer works wonders. The recipe below is seriously amazing. 

Ingredients (for 10)
1lb ground lamb
2 onions, diced small
1 medium carrot, diced small
5 minced garlic cloves
2 tbsp tomato puree
1 cup chicken stock
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
125ml Guinness
2 tsp chopped fresh thyme
1 tsp chopped fresh rosemary
1/2 cup peas
1 tsp salt
1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
For the potato mash: 1lb Yukon Gold potatoes, 120ml cream, 100g butter, 6 minced garlic cloves, 1 tsp salt, 1 tbsp fresh chopped parsley

Method
Everyone has their own way of making Shepherd’s Pie so truth be told, simply including the Guinness when you add the stock is all you need to do. However, this recipe is amazing if you want to try it.

On medium heat, add the garlic, onions and carrots to your oil and cook gently for 10 minutes stirring occasionally. Add the tomato puree and cook for another 10 minutes, before adding the lamb and turning up the heat to brown it off. Then simply add everything else in (not the potatoes obviously!), including that all-important gorgeous Guinness, and simmer until the mixture is reduced.

For the potatoes, boil equally sized quarters until tender. Meanwhile, sauté the garlic with butter and add cream – then once the potatoes are drained and the steam is released, mash them and fold them into your mixture.

Spread the lamb evenly in a baking dish and top with potatoes making sure there are no gaps. Bake for around 25 minutes in a oven preheated to 200 °C and once the potatoes have browned to your taste on top, garnish with parsley and voilá, it’s ready to serve. 

Guinness Raspberry Chocolate Torte

You might expect a Guinness in a stew or pie situation, but perhaps not in a Raspberry Chocolate Torte? Now, Guinness recommends their Foreign Extra Stout to drink on the side of this, but we’re going to be ambitious and include it. It’s by no means the dominant flavour, but it gives a special kind of depth and slight tang that plays off the raspberry gorgeously.

Ingredients (for 16)

455g bittersweet chocolate (61% dark)
455g butter
455g Sugar
10 egg whites
200ml Guinness (original or Foreign Extra Stout)
4 heaped tbsp plain flour
Butter Cream: 340g butter, 120g unsweetened cocoa powder, 575g confectioners’ sugar, 160g seedless raspberry jam, 2 tsp vanilla extract

Method
Melt the chocolate and butter and whisk in the sugar until it’s completely mixed. Wait for it to cool down to room temp, meanwhile whisk egg whites to stiff peaks. Fold the egg whites into the chocolate mix, whisk the Guinness into the combined mix slowly and finally add your flour little by little. The mixture should be fairly runny, so make sure to slowly add the flour.

Grease two tins and pour the batter evenly, baking for around 25 minutes at 160°C (a skewer should come out with a few crumbs attached, so ever so slightly undercooked).

Whilst waiting, whisk the butter, cocoa powder and sugar to make the buttercream. Then add the raspberry jam and vanilla, mixing at a higher speed for a good minute. You may need to add a little milk here to help reach your desired consistency of buttercream.

Chill overnight and add the cream to the top of each cake, layering them upon one another! decorate with raspberries and you’re ready to dive in.

If you’re after Irish Whiskey for the big day instead, how about our very own blend?! That’s right, with The Three Drinkers have launched their own wine-finished Irish Whiskey with the amazing Sliabh Liag Distillers – find out more here!