The Sexton Single Malt
We’re big fans of The Sexton Single Malt, and not just because of the cool packaging on the bottle. Who knew a skull in a top hat could be so inviting? But we’re also fans of the actual product, too. The Sexton says its Irish Single Malt whiskey is distilled in copper pot stills and then aged for four years in a sherry cask straight from Spain. It uses Irish malted barley and has a reputation of being “the best selling Irish Single Malt in America.” There’s probably a good reason for that, as this whiskey has a wide range of flavors to enjoy. Here, you’ll taste a mix of dried fruit, nuts, and honeycomb, making for a rich and complex flavor all around.
And with such a complex flavor profile, we feel The Sexton Single Malt is a great addition to our list of best whiskeys for Irish coffee. We know you won’t be able to resist the perfect combo of fruits and nuts in one sip.
Use Two Sugars For Better Irish Coffee
A combination of granulated sugar and brown sugar makes for a cup of joe with balanced sweetness. Just a teaspoon of each keeps the cup from being cloying, which the molasses brings the whiskeys own sweetness to the forefront. Use unsweetened whipped cream to keep the sweetness contained in the coffee and avoid a sugar hangover later in the day.
The Greatest Irish Coffee Recipe In The World
Before we begin, let’s start with a top tip: preheat your mug. Boil up the kettle and fill it up. Then, let it warm through whilst you start brewing your coffee.
You’ll need:
- 130 mL of coffee
- 40 mL of Irish Whiskey
- 2 tsp Demerara sugar
- A big dollop of heavy whipped cream
What to do:
There are also a few variations you can try. Here are our favourites:
- Irish Cream Coffee: The old half-and-half pour in half Irish whiskey and half Bailey’s. Then, top with a Maraschino cherry.
- Bailey’s Irish Coffee: If you love a creamy hot drink, skip the whiskey and go all-in on Bailey’s. As an after-dinner beverage, they don’t come any richer.
Buena Vista Irish Coffee: Two sugar cubes. Lightly whipped cream poured over the back of a spoon. Trust us this one’s something special.
And there you go. The best Irish coffee, this side of Dublin. Just add a roaring fire, friends and family and plenty of craic!
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Best Value: Slane Irish Whiskey
Region: Ireland | ABV: 40% | Tasting Notes: Caramel, vanilla, dried fruit
Slane hails from the Boyne River Valley, which was once home to many other distilleries, and is one of the few that has revitalized the tradition. Distilled on the grounds housing the old Slane Castle, this Irish whiskey is aged in a selection of three different casks: virgin oak, seasoned whiskey, and Oloroso sherry. Its bold and layered with flavors of caramel, vanilla, and dried fruit. With its rich history, complex flavor, and pedigreed musical ties , this affordable bottling is a steal.
It works in a variety of ways, says Alicia Yamachika, lead bartender at Nobu Honolulu. The three different casks it ages in all add a little something different to be enjoyed. Tame the spice with an ice cube or use its heft to your advantage in a cocktail like an old fashioned or a New York sour.
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“I’m a big fan of Slane Whiskey. It’s really lovely on its own, but because of its soft and approachable profile, it works well in lighter whiskey cocktails. And you can’t beat the price point.” Prairie Rose, Editor
How To Choose A Perfect Whiskey To Blend With Your Irish Coffee
Coffee is a way of life for many people. It is the most preferred beverage among the students and working-class people who need a constant caffeine fix. An alcohol lover will love nothing more than enjoying a late winter evening in their cozy house with a glass of whiskey to accompany them.
So, why not merge a diehard fan of coffee and an alcohol lover to create something epic called Irish coffee? But in this too, there lies something challenging to choose. It will be liquors choice to add to your coffee to make that perfect cup of Irish coffee. Therefore, here we have lined up some of the best whiskey to blend with your coffee.
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Can I Mix Whiskey With Coffee
One of the simplest and oldest ways to make coffee is with Irish Coffee. You can get it with either sugar or Irish cream, and its a blend of coffee, whiskey, and sugar. Perfect for after dinner or as a nightcap, this bittersweet hot cocktail is the perfect cocktail to end a great meal. However, decaffeinated coffee might be the best option.
Best For Sipping On Ice: Green Spot Irish Whiskey
Region: Ireland | ABV: 40% | Tasting Notes: Green apple, apricot, honey
This cult favorite was originally created in the 1800s for merchant company Mitchell & Son using distillate from Jamesons Bow Street Distillery. The name Green Spot comes from the method in which the Mitchells would mark the ages of their whiskey casks: a green spot on a barrel would mean a certain age, while a blue spot would mean another, and so on. The green-spotted barrel won out, and today it lives on as a blend of single pot still whiskeys aged in both ex-bourbon barrels and sherry casks.
I am a big fan of Green Spot for its light body and delightfully fresh green apple notes, says Yamachika. Pouring the spirit over a single large ice cube only enhances those crisp, fruity notes, transforming the Irish whiskey into a refreshing drink.
Region: Ireland | ABV: 42% | Tasting Notes: Pear, cinnamon, orange zest
Though it may seem new to you, the distillery was actually founded in 1776. But the whiskey only recently made its way back to U.S. shores after being banished to the Emerald Isle during Prohibition. While it is extremely sippable on its own, this rounded whiskey plays well with a touch of citrus and can handle the heat of a Hot Toddy .
Region: Ireland | ABV: 40% | Tasting Notes: Grain, lemon, honey
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How To Make It
A Question I Get Asked A Lot Is Whats The Secret Of A Real Irish Coffee
Being a passionate Irish tour guide with a background in the whiskey industry, I can honestly tell you that Ive seen a lot of Irish coffees in my life and some of them had little in common with the delicious, hot Irish whiskey infused coffee cocktail that has been warming our bellies and hearts for decades. Bartenders, mixologists and whiskey enthusiasts around the world tweaked and adjusted this famous drinks recipe to tailor their own interpretation of the classic Irish coffee. Their creations are often bold and fancy but also complicated. The good news is that the original Irish coffee recipe is straight forward and simply delicious especially when you know the little secrets that Im about to share with you!
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A Brief History Of Irish Whiskey
The oldest known record of Irish whiskey goes back to 1405, roughly 90 years before the first known record of Scotch whiskey was written.
While traveling 1500 years ago, Irish missionary monks developed the process of distillation. When they returned to Ireland, they put their newly acquired skills to the test by distilling alcohol.
As far back as the 16th, 17th, 18th, and up until the 19th-century, Irish whiskey was one of the world’s most sought-after beverages. At its peak, the island had 88 licensed distilleries. Dublin was a whiskey metropolis in the nineteenth century, producing ten million gallons of whiskey per year, making it five times more popular than anything made in Scotland at the time.
However, the twentieth century posed several challenges to the category. When the world was at war, it was forbidden to use barley or coal for non-military purposes. As a result of these tough times, Irish whiskey producers and drinkers in the United Kingdom were classified as “rebels” by the British people, resulting in a decline in whiskey consumption across the British Empire.
Then came Prohibition, enacted in 1919 and lasting until 1933, eliminated our greatest export market. Then came WWII and a devastating trade war with Britain that practically shut down the whole British Empire, including India, Canada, and Australia as a market. A Scotch whisky boom was the final nail in the coffin.
How Long Is Irish Whiskey Aged
Irish law dictates that all Irish whiskey must be aged for at least three years. Some distilleries barrel age their whiskeys beyond the minimum, so youll see Irish whiskey aged for a decade or two . In blended whiskey, an age statement indicates the youngest whiskey within that blend. Ireland also has its version of moonshine called potcheen , which is unaged but technically cant have Irish whiskey on the label.
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The Sexton Single Malt Irish Whiskey
ABV: 40%
Made from 100 percent malted barley distilled in copper pot stills, The Sexton Single Malt Irish Whiskey is a favorite of Scotch lovers. That malted grain character is further emphasized through aging in densely flavorful Oloroso sherry barrels, giving it a dense honeyed malt aroma and complex, spicy flavor. If all that sounds like a whiskey that will put a dent in your wallet, youll be pleasantly surprised by The Sextons affordable pricingmaking it a uniquely flavorful spirit thats great for mixing.
Best Whiskeys For An Irish Coffee
Irish coffee is a popular after-dinner drink, says Mix That Drink, and doesn’t take a lot to make. All you really need is a nice Irish whiskey and some freshly brewed coffee. Of course, some sugar and whipped cream are never bad add-ons, too. This drink is an oldie but a goodie, as it’s been around for quite some time. The Irish coffee first came about in 1952 thanks to Joe Sheridan, a chef who worked at an airport in Ireland says San Francisco Travel. He created the hot drink when a bunch of passengers got stranded during a winter storm.
Today, the drink is still just as popular. After all, there is the International Irish Coffee Day on January 25th, says Irish Central. But not just any whiskey will do when making this favorite coffee drink. That’s where we come in. We’ve rounded up the 16 best whiskeys for an Irish coffee for the next time you need a pick-me-up.
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How To Get The Cream To Float On An Irish Coffee
The secret to a floating cream is all in the pour. Use a lightly whipped cream, and pour slowly into the coffee preferably over a warm spoon. Gradually the cream will settle on top, forming a rich and delicious layer.
Or to cheat- get your whisk out and show the cream a little elbow grease. Once you’ve got some air in, you can add a dollop of cream onto the top. It’s foolproof!
Oh, and if you’re adding in sugar, we recommend two spoonfuls of brown sugar. You can use granulated. But the caramel flavour of brown sugar perfectly complements the rich coffee, cream and hit of whiskey. Remember to mix in the sugar before you add on the cream, however. And if you’re adding in sugar, use unsweetened cream. The last thing you want is for your Irish coffee to taste more like a sweet shop than a heavenly cocktail.
Use Only Irish Whiskey For Classic Irish Coffee
No question: Irish coffee should be made with Jameson. Its smooth, sweet, and just a touch spicy, plus its not too damaging on the wallet. If youve already got a whiskey collection at home you want to use, choose something in the mid-range with a mild, sweet finish to counter the bitter coffee.
Read more: Why I Drink Jameson
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What’s An Irish Coffee
Classic Irish coffees are made with just four simple ingredients:
Proper Twelve Irish Whiskey Ireland
Owned by MMA fighter Conor McGregor, Proper Twelve makes a full-bodied Irish coffee thats rich without being too sweet. It has bitter chocolate, toasted grain, and sourdough crust aromas, and creamy, chocolatey flavors. The spirit, a blend of bourbon-cask-aged grain and single malt whiskey, is also notable on the palate but doesnt overpower. Average price: $26
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What Whiskey Should I Use For My Irish Coffee
A time-honored tradition is upon us: the National Holiday for Irish Coffee. While many sources tell different tales of where this practice actually started, it is a drink loved by many and celebrated on January 25. .
The recipe is simple . Black coffee is poured into your mug. Whiskey and at least one leveled teaspoon of sugar is stirred in until it is fully dissolved. The sugar is essential for the liquid cream to float on top. Or at least that is one way to do it.
My favorite whiskeys for Irish Coffee:
Photo: Albany Distilling Co
IRONWEED RYE WHISKEY
This award-winning rye whiskey is made by the Albany Distilling Company with 100% New York State-grown ingredients. Dark and delicious, this whiskey boasts 2-4 years aged in Oak Barrels and an earthy sweet finish, making it a perfect pairing for your black brew.
MIC DROP STRAIGHT BOURBON WHISKEY
This whiskey is made with incredible attention to detail from PM Spirts. Aged 8 years with a focus on the bourbon, but with subtle hints of vanilla and apple and nuts. This whiskey will compliment your coffee and linger in the back of your mind long after the cup is empty.
ANGELS ENVY KENTUCKY BOURBON – PORT FINISH
Typically aged up to 6 years, this blended Kentucky bourbon whiskey is finished for up to 6 months in port wine casks. This gives the whiskey and incredibly smooth and sweet taste. Pouring this into your cup of joe will truly make a heavenly drink.
JAMESON BLACK BARREL
Honorable Mention:
BAILEYS IRISH CREAM
Irish Whiskey Glass & A Tea Spoon
Irish coffee is traditionally served in a glass mug aka the Irish coffee glass . The glass mug ideally holds about 8oz or about 240ml. You will also need a tea spoon for the preparations.
Can I use a normal coffee mug instead of an Irish coffee glass?
Obviously, a coffee mug will also work as a vessel for liquid, but you will completely miss out on the original layer look of your Irish coffee. If you dont have an Irish coffee glass to hand, I would recommend using an 8oz wine glass. Be very careful though since the glass might be more delicate than the Irish whiskey glass.
Preparation of the glass
It is best to heat up the glass. This will keep your Irish coffee warm for longer. The trick is to put a metal tea spoon into the glass to prevent the glass from cracking when you pour in the hot water.
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Buying Guide Of Irish Whiskey For Irish Coffee
What are the key factors you look for when purchasing a high-quality Irish Whiskey For Irish Coffee? We understand that it can be challenging to decide which one is right for your needs when there are so many options available. However, we have done all of this research and put together lists that should help narrow down your choices. You must also have a list of questions on your mind. Although Consume with Care has done everything we can to help you, it is still imperative for you to do your own research. You need to check out any relevant Irish Whiskey For Irish Coffees before buying them, so they are exactly what you need!
- Does it make sense for you to invest in the Best Irish Whiskey For Irish Coffee?
- Which brand offers the best Irish Whiskey For Irish Coffee in the current market for the money?
- What are the advantages to buying Best Irish Whiskey For Irish Coffees?
- Which factors should be considered when selecting the best products?
There are undoubtedly many questions you still have about the best Irish Whiskey For Irish Coffee. The best way to find out the answers is to do your research and talk with someone who knows what theyre talking about. No one knows more about this topic than experts! Sources of information for you could include buying guides, word-of-mouth, rating websites, testimonials from previous customers who have purchased these products and online forums devoted solely to discussing topics related to Best Irish Whiskey For Irish Coffee.