Sip Smart: Best Irish Whiskeys to Try Right Now

Redbreast 12 is the kind of whiskey that turns casual sippers into die-hard fans. It’s a single pot still Irish whiskey—meaning it’s made from a mix of malted and unmalted barley, distilled in traditional copper pot stills. That style gives it a creamy, spicy depth you won’t find in most blends.

The nose is warm and inviting—think baked apples, honey, toasted nuts, and a hint of sherry. That sherry influence comes from the Oloroso-seasoned casks used during maturation. On the palate, it’s rich but smooth, with flavors of dried fruit, vanilla, baking spice, and a whisper of oak. The finish is long, satisfying, and just a little peppery. It’s the kind of pour that gets better with each sip.

This isn’t a whiskey that slaps you with smoke or heat. Instead, it wraps you in complexity. Even seasoned Scotch lovers often find themselves impressed. Redbreast 12 has won countless awards and remains a favorite among bartenders, critics, and everyday drinkers alike.

What makes it extra special is its price-to-quality ratio. For a whiskey of this depth and age, it’s surprisingly affordable. You’ll struggle to find another 12-year-old that brings this much flavor for under $80.

Average Price: $70–80

Single Pot Still

Matured in Oloroso sherry and bourbon casks

Rich, creamy texture

Notes of fruitcake, nuts, vanilla, spice

Green Spot is a true hidden gem in the Irish whiskey world. It is a single pot still whiskey like Redbreast but has a brighter and fresher personality. Produced by the Midleton Distillery and released under the Mitchell & Son label, Green Spot brings a piece of Irish history into every pour. It is one of the few remaining whiskeys that originated as a bonded whiskey, which means it was matured and bottled by independent wine merchants rather than the distillery itself.

From the moment you open the bottle, the aromas are light and inviting. Think green apples, pears, fresh herbs, and a touch of toasted wood. On the palate, it is fruity and smooth with notes of citrus zest, honey, and a bit of spice from the pot still distillation. There is a gentle creaminess to it that balances the brighter flavors, making it extremely easy to sip.

The whiskey is aged in a combination of ex-bourbon and sherry casks. This adds subtle layers of richness and depth without overpowering its clean, vibrant core. Unlike some heavier styles, Green Spot keeps things light and lively, which is why many people find it perfect for spring and summer evenings or as an introduction to pot still whiskeys.

Green Spot is not the most widely available Irish whiskey, and that limited production adds to its charm. It is respected by enthusiasts and frequently recommended for anyone looking to branch out from basic blends. The balance of flavor and finesse in this bottle makes it stand out without shouting.

Average Price: $60–70

Single Pot Still

Aged in bourbon and sherry casks

Fresh, fruity character

Notes of apple, citrus, honey, and light spice

Teeling Small Batch is a modern classic. This whiskey helped put Dublin back on the map as a whiskey-producing city after decades of silence. Made by the Teeling Whiskey Company, which opened its distillery in 2015, this bottle shows what new Irish whiskey brands can achieve when they focus on flavor and creativity.

What makes Teeling Small Batch different from many others is its finish. After aging in ex-bourbon barrels, it spends extra time in Central American rum casks. That extra aging gives it a round, sweet, and slightly tropical edge that you do not usually find in Irish whiskey. The result is something approachable but still layered enough to keep whiskey lovers coming back.

The nose is all about vanilla, caramel, and a bit of dried fruit. On the palate, it delivers more than expected at this price point. You will taste a soft sweetness with hints of molasses, banana, and spice. There is also a slight oakiness in the background that helps keep it grounded. The finish is smooth and warm, with a little kick of pepper to remind you it is still whiskey.

Teeling Small Batch is a favorite for cocktails because it plays well with mixers, but it is also very enjoyable neat or with a splash of water. It is not a whiskey that demands your full attention, but it will reward you if you give it. This is a great pick for anyone who wants something affordable with a unique twist.

Average Price: $40–50

Small batch blend

Finished in rum casks

Notes of vanilla, banana, spice, and molasses

Great for sipping or cocktails

Powers John's Lane is a whiskey for people who like bold flavors and a bit more punch in their glass. It is named after the original Powers distillery on John's Lane in Dublin, where the brand began its long history in the 18th century. This release is a celebration of that heritage and is considered one of the best single pot still whiskeys in the entire Powers lineup.

Unlike some of the softer Irish whiskeys out there, this one comes in with real weight. The nose hits you with dark chocolate, leather, dried fruit, and a little toasted wood. There is also a bit of earthy spice that tells you this is a serious drink. It smells complex, and the taste delivers on that promise.

On the palate, it is rich and layered. Expect to get cocoa, clove, cinnamon, roasted nuts, and even some coffee tones. It is aged in a mix of bourbon and oloroso sherry casks, and you can absolutely taste the depth that combination brings. The sherry gives it a little fruit and roundness, while the bourbon casks add vanilla and structure. The finish is long, warm, and spicy, lingering in the best way.

This is not your everyday sipping whiskey unless you are into full-flavored spirits. But it is perfect for slow evenings, special occasions, or for when you want something more intense than the usual light and easy Irish options. Many longtime whiskey drinkers consider it one of the best value bottles available in the entire category.

Average Price: $65–75

Single Pot Still

Aged in bourbon and sherry casks

Full-bodied and spicy

Notes of cocoa, clove, dried fruit, and roasted nuts

Bushmills 16 Year Old is an elegant whiskey with a reputation for smoothness and subtle depth. It is a triple-distilled single malt from the oldest licensed whiskey distillery in the world—Bushmills in Northern Ireland. What sets this bottle apart is its unique three-cask maturation process. It spends time in bourbon and sherry casks before being finished in port wine barrels. That gives it a flavor profile you will not find in many other Irish whiskeys.

Right out of the glass, the nose is soft and layered. Expect red berries, dark chocolate, roasted nuts, and a little toasted oak. It smells rich but not overwhelming. Take a sip, and the texture is incredibly smooth. Flavors of dried fruit, almonds, vanilla, and subtle spice all come through. The port finish adds a sweet, wine-like quality that brings everything together beautifully. It is balanced and refined, not flashy.

The finish is silky and lingers with a bit of cherry and cocoa. Nothing harsh, nothing rushed. Just a slow fade of flavor that makes you want another sip. For those who enjoy a softer, fruitier whiskey that still has some complexity, Bushmills 16 delivers in a big way.

This bottle is often recommended to people who enjoy Speyside Scotch or wine-finished bourbons. It sits comfortably in the premium range, but it does not feel overpriced considering the quality and age. If you are in the mood for something rich but not heavy, this is a solid choice.

Average Price: $90–100

100% Single Malt

Aged in bourbon, sherry, and finished in port casks

Exceptionally smooth and fruity

Notes of red berries, dark chocolate, vanilla, and nuts

Writer’s Tears Copper Pot is a whiskey with personality. It blends tradition with charm and delivers a drinking experience that’s both easygoing and full of character. The name is part of the appeal—it hints at the romantic idea of writers pouring out their emotions, maybe with a glass of whiskey by their side. But this bottle is more than just clever branding. It is a seriously good dram at a very approachable price.

This is a unique blend made from single pot still and single malt whiskeys, without any grain whiskey in the mix. That combination gives it a balance of richness and brightness. On the nose, you’ll pick up green apple, honey, soft spice, and a bit of vanilla. It is light, inviting, and sets the tone perfectly.

Take a sip, and you get something fresh but not boring. There’s a nice mix of orchard fruit, toffee, cinnamon, and a touch of ginger. The pot still side brings spice and body, while the malt gives it sweetness and lift. The mouthfeel is smooth, not overly oily, and the finish brings a gentle wave of warmth and subtle oak.

Writer’s Tears works well as an everyday sipper, and it is also great for sharing. It’s the kind of whiskey that even non-whiskey drinkers tend to enjoy. It might not be the most complex bottle on this list, but it earns its spot through balance, flavor, and accessibility. It is also a go-to pick for gifting, especially for those who appreciate literature, storytelling, or just a good Irish label with meaning behind it.

Average Price: $45–55

Blend of single malt and single pot still

No grain whiskey

Light and fruity with soft spice

Notes of green apple, honey, toffee, and cinnamon

The Irishman Single Malt is one of those bottles that quietly wins people over. It might not be as widely known as some of the big names, but once you try it, you’ll understand why it keeps showing up in serious whiskey conversations. Produced by Walsh Whiskey, this is a triple-distilled single malt aged in both bourbon and sherry casks, which gives it a layered but approachable flavor profile.

The nose is light and clean, with a good mix of floral sweetness and baked fruit. You’ll notice hints of apricot, honey, and soft vanilla, followed by a touch of spice that adds depth without overwhelming your senses. It smells elegant, and the taste delivers exactly that.

On the palate, it leans into that fruit-forward style. Think peaches, green grapes, and a touch of orange zest, all wrapped in a smooth blanket of malt and oak. There’s a honeyed richness that stays consistent from start to finish, and the sherry influence comes through subtly with just a bit of dried fruit and nuttiness. It is refined but not too fancy. You don’t need to be a whiskey expert to enjoy this bottle.

The finish is smooth and medium in length, leaving behind some gentle spice and lingering sweetness. It is perfect for slow sipping and also plays well in an old fashioned if you’re into whiskey cocktails with a twist. The Irishman Single Malt offers excellent value for money and is a strong example of how smaller producers in Ireland are making high-quality whiskey without cutting corners.

Average Price: $60–70

Triple-distilled single malt

Aged in bourbon and sherry casks

Bright and fruity with a smooth texture

Notes of apricot, honey, orange zest, and soft spice

Jameson Black Barrel is a fan favorite that sits a step above the classic green bottle most people know. While standard Jameson is a smooth and easy sipper, Black Barrel brings more richness and depth without losing that signature drinkability. It is a blend of pot still and grain whiskey, aged in a combination of ex-bourbon and sherry casks, but the key difference is in the char. The barrels used for this release are double-charred, giving it a deeper, toastier profile.

The nose comes in with caramel, vanilla, toasted oak, and a bit of banana bread. It feels warm and dessert-like, but not too sweet. On the palate, it opens up beautifully with flavors of toffee, baking spices, dried fruit, and a bit of dark chocolate. There’s also a nice roasted note, kind of like coffee or burnt sugar, that gives it more complexity than standard blends.

What makes Black Barrel stand out is the balance between smoothness and richness. It’s still easy to sip neat or on the rocks, but it has enough flavor to hold up in cocktails like an old fashioned or whiskey sour. It is often recommended to people looking to step up from regular Jameson without jumping into higher-priced single malts or pot still whiskeys.

For the price, it offers serious value. It is widely available, well-made, and just plain enjoyable. If you’re hosting a get-together or want a crowd-pleaser that still feels a bit elevated, this one hits the mark.

Average Price: $40–50

Blend of pot still and grain whiskey

Aged in double-charred bourbon barrels and sherry casks

Rich and smooth with toasted notes

Flavors of caramel, toffee, spice, and roasted oak

Connemara Peated Single Malt is a bit of a rebel in the Irish whiskey scene. Most Irish whiskeys are known for being smooth, fruity, and clean. But Connemara throws smoke into the mix—literally. It’s one of the only peated Irish whiskeys on the market, and that smoky character gives it a unique place on this list. If you enjoy Scotch whisky from Islay or Highland regions, this might be the Irish bottle that wins you over.

The nose is smoky right from the start, but not in an aggressive way. Think campfire, sea air, and earthy peat, softened by honey, vanilla, and green apple. It’s a very interesting mix that makes you want to take your time with it. On the palate, you’ll get a wave of gentle smoke, followed by sweet malt, citrus, a bit of oak, and subtle spice. It is smoky but still smooth, and there’s a touch of herbal freshness in the background that keeps it lively.

One thing to note is that the peat level here is moderate. It is not a smoke bomb like some Scottish single malts. Instead, it’s more balanced, letting the fruit and malt flavors come through clearly while still giving that smoky edge. This makes it a great pick for people who want to explore peated whiskey without going full blast.

The finish is dry, slightly smoky, and lingers with soft spice and wood. It’s not for everyone, but for the right person, it becomes a regular favorite. Connemara also makes older and higher-proof versions, but this standard release is a great starting point.

Average Price: $50–60

Peated single malt

Lightly smoky with fruity balance

Unique among Irish whiskeys

Notes of peat smoke, honey, citrus, and malt

Tullamore D.E.W. 12 Year Special Reserve is a smooth and refined blend that proves Irish whiskey can be mellow and complex at the same time. Tullamore D.E.W. is one of the biggest names in Irish whiskey, and this 12-year expression is a serious step up from the standard version. It is a triple-distilled blend of grain, malt, and pot still whiskey, aged in a mix of ex-bourbon and both oloroso and PX sherry casks.

On the nose, you get a soft wave of dried fruit, toasted nuts, vanilla, and gentle spice. There’s a little chocolate and a warm hint of leather that adds maturity. It smells like something you could sit with for a while, and the taste delivers the same layered feel.

The palate is incredibly smooth with notes of raisin, fig, almond, and a bit of cinnamon. The sherry influence is clear but not overwhelming. It brings a soft sweetness that mixes well with the richer oak tones and the buttery texture from the grain whiskey. There is also just enough spice from the pot still component to give it a nice lift. The mouthfeel is silky, and the finish fades out gently with a little dried fruit and nutmeg.

This is not a flashy whiskey. It’s a slow sipper, a little more grown-up than the core Tullamore bottling, and perfect for people who want something easygoing but with more depth. It’s also a solid pick for people who enjoy whiskeys finished in sherry casks but want something softer than a bold Scotch.

Average Price: $45–55

Blend of grain, malt, and pot still

Aged in bourbon, oloroso, and PX sherry casks

Very smooth and balanced

Notes of raisin, almond, spice, and vanilla

Yellow Spot 12 Year Old is one of the standout single pot still whiskeys from the Spot range, and it offers a more luxurious experience than its younger sibling, Green Spot. It is matured in a trio of casks—bourbon, sherry, and Malaga wine barrels—which gives it a rich and fruity character with a silky finish that feels downright elegant.

The nose is complex and inviting. You’ll pick up aromas of peach, apricot, honey, and toasted oak, with a subtle floral note that keeps things fresh. There’s also a hint of spice and sweetness from the Malaga casks, which are not commonly used in whiskey maturation. This gives Yellow Spot a unique edge among Irish whiskeys.

On the palate, it starts soft and fruity, with flavors of stewed stone fruits, baked apple, and honeycomb. Then comes a wave of spice—clove, cinnamon, and white pepper—that adds depth without overwhelming the sweetness. The Malaga wine finish really shines here, adding a dessert-like quality that makes each sip feel smooth and satisfying. There’s also a buttery texture that coats the mouth, making it feel more luxurious than most 12-year-olds.

The finish is long, sweet, and just a little spicy. It leaves you with dried fruit, oak, and a touch of citrus zest. This is a whiskey for someone who wants depth without heaviness and sweetness without being syrupy. It is a great pick for special occasions or gifting, and it’s often a favorite among those who enjoy the layered profiles of wine-cask-finished spirits.

Average Price: $100–110

Single Pot Still

Aged in bourbon, sherry, and Malaga wine casks

Rich, fruity, and smooth

Notes of apricot, honey, clove, and baked apple

The Sexton is one of those whiskeys that catches your eye right away. The black hexagonal bottle with the skull on the label feels more like something you would see in a gothic novel than on a liquor shelf. But behind the bold design is a very approachable single malt that offers a smooth and flavorful experience, especially for the price.

This is a young whiskey, matured entirely in oloroso sherry casks. That kind of aging brings a deep layer of fruit and spice, giving it a flavor profile that feels richer than you might expect. When you pour a glass, the first thing you notice is the color. It has a warm amber tone that hints at the sherry influence right away.

On the nose, you get dark dried fruits like raisins and figs, followed by toffee, roasted nuts, and a little orange zest. There is also a bit of baking spice in the background, which makes it feel cozy and inviting. The aroma is bold but not overpowering.

Take a sip, and it opens up with a smooth and slightly oily texture. The flavor brings forward dates, dark chocolate, spice, and a touch of oak. It is sweet at first but finishes with a nice little bite that keeps things interesting. The finish is medium in length and leans into dried fruit and spice. The Sexton is great for sipping neat, but it also stands up well in cocktails thanks to its richness. It is not the most complex whiskey on this list, but it is fun, flavorful, and different from your average Irish pour. It is especially popular among younger whiskey fans and bartenders looking for something unique to mix with.

Average Price: $35–45

Single malt

Matured entirely in oloroso sherry casks

Bold design with a smooth flavor

Tastes of dark fruit, chocolate, and spice

Knappogue Castle 12 Year Old is a classic example of what Irish single malt can be when it is treated with care and simplicity. This whiskey keeps things straightforward. It is triple distilled and aged for twelve years in bourbon casks, and that focus on clean aging really lets the natural flavors of the malt shine through.

The brand itself has an interesting history. Named after an actual castle in County Clare, Knappogue was revived in the late 20th century with the goal of bringing high quality single malt Irish whiskey back into the spotlight. This twelve year old expression is a solid reminder that you do not always need fancy finishes or exotic barrels to make something delicious.

On the nose, it is fresh and crisp. You get apple, pear, vanilla, and soft floral notes. There is also a touch of grain sweetness that gives it a warm and approachable character. It smells clean and natural, without any heavy influence from the wood.

Take a sip, and it follows through with a gentle sweetness. Flavors of honey, green fruit, malt, and just a little spice unfold gradually. It has a light to medium body and a very smooth texture. The bourbon cask influence brings in some vanilla and oak, but it never overwhelms the malt character. Everything is nicely balanced. The finish is short to medium, with a clean and slightly dry end. It is the kind of whiskey you can enjoy without overthinking it. Perfect for sipping on a quiet evening, or even as a gift for someone just getting into Irish whiskey. It is not trying to be dramatic. It is just good, honest whiskey made the right way.

Average Price: $45–55

Triple distilled single malt

Aged entirely in bourbon barrels

Light, crisp, and smooth

Tastes of apple, vanilla, honey, and soft spice

Glendalough Pot Still is one of the newer players in the Irish whiskey world, but it is already earning respect for doing things with real attention to detail. The distillery is based in the Wicklow Mountains and takes its inspiration from the natural surroundings and ancient monastic roots of the region. This pot still whiskey is a great example of how craft producers in Ireland are helping to evolve the tradition without losing what makes it special.

What sets this one apart is its cask finish. After aging in ex bourbon barrels, it is finished in Irish oak casks that are harvested from the nearby Wicklow forests. That local oak adds a very distinct character that you do not usually get in Irish whiskey. It brings a slight earthiness and richness that feels very grounded and natural.

On the nose, you will find vanilla, stewed apples, toasted oak, and a little spice. There is also a soft herbal note, almost like fresh thyme or mint, which gives it a clean and green edge. The aroma is warm and slightly rustic in the best way.

On the palate, it is rich and creamy. You get honey, caramel, orchard fruit, and warm spice, with the Irish oak bringing in a touch of tannin and earth. The mouthfeel is full, making it feel more substantial than many others in this price range. The finish is long, dry, and slightly spicy, with a lingering note of wood and pepper. This is a whiskey for people who want to explore something rooted in place. The use of Irish oak makes it a little different, and the pot still style brings that signature spice and body. It is a thoughtful pour, and one that rewards sipping slowly.

Average Price: $55–65

Single pot still whiskey

Finished in Irish oak casks from Wicklow

Rich, earthy, and well balanced

Tastes of honey, caramel, spice, and toasted oak

Midleton Very Rare is the crown jewel of Irish whiskey. First released in 1984, it is crafted once a year in small batches at the Midleton Distillery, which is also home to Jameson, Redbreast, and Green Spot. This is not just another bottle on the shelf. It is a collector’s item and a celebration of everything Irish whiskey can be when given time, care, and master-level blending.

Each release is made using a selection of the finest pot still and grain whiskeys aged between twelve and thirty years. These whiskeys are handpicked by the master distiller, and no two vintages are exactly the same. That makes every bottle unique, which is a big part of the appeal for collectors and connoisseurs.

On the nose, Midleton Very Rare is elegant and soft. You get floral notes, vanilla, ripe fruits, a touch of oak, and gentle spice. It smells polished and refined. Nothing sharp, nothing forced. Just clean, mature whiskey aromas that invite you in slowly.

The flavor is where it really shines. You’ll taste honey, creamy toffee, dried apricot, roasted nuts, and a trace of spice. The texture is silky, and everything unfolds in layers. There is no harshness, no single note dominating the others. It is all in harmony. The finish is long and smooth, with soft oak and sweet grain trailing off gently. This is a bottle you open on special occasions. Some drink it to mark life milestones. Others collect each vintage. Either way, it represents the height of Irish whiskey craftsmanship. It is not cheap, but for those who appreciate the details, it is worth every drop.

Average Price: $200–250

Annual small batch release

Blend of aged pot still and grain whiskeys

Elegant, complex, and collectible

Tastes of vanilla, dried fruit, honey, and oak

There is no single best Irish whiskey for everyone. Some people like it soft and sweet, others go for smoky and bold. Some want tradition in every sip, while others chase new styles and unique cask finishes. The great thing is that Irish whiskey now offers all of that and more. Whether you’re sipping Redbreast on a quiet night, sharing a bottle of Green Spot with friends, or saving Midleton Very Rare for a once-in-a-lifetime moment, the right bottle is out there waiting.

This list is not about ranking them from worst to best. It is about showing the wide variety of quality options available. From the rich spice of pot stills to the fruit-forward charm of single malts and the balance of well-made blends, there is a whiskey on this list for every kind of drinker. And thanks to the steady rise in global interest, more distilleries are opening, experimenting, and bringing their own style to the mix.

If you are just starting your Irish whiskey journey, try something smooth and balanced like Teeling Small Batch or The Irishman. If you want tradition and depth, go for Powers John’s Lane or Yellow Spot. Feeling adventurous? Connemara’s smoky edge or Glendalough’s Irish oak finish could be the surprise you didn’t know you needed.

Irish whiskey is more than just a drink. It is part of a culture. It is meant to be shared, talked about, and enjoyed. So whether you’re a collector, a casual fan, or just someone who enjoys a good glass after a long day, take your time exploring. You might just find your favorite bottle when you least expect it.

Sláinte.