Common Cents Liquor's Guide to Making the Perfect Irish Cocktails

Who isn’t Irish on St. Patrick’s Day? This cultural and religious festivity dates back to the early 17th century, honoring the patron saint of Ireland, St. Patrick. Originally a religious observance within the Catholic Church, the day has evolved into a global celebration of Irish culture. 

The tradition of drinking on this particular holiday comes from the temporary lifting of Lenten restrictions, allowing for indulgence in food and drink. The day’s spirit is perfectly encapsulated in the cheerful clink of glasses filled with the flavors of Ireland, making the crafting of Irish cocktails a St. Patrick’s Day tradition. 

Now you may be thinking; “here we go the dreaded list of green “Irish” drinks”. We hope you will be pleasantly surprised by what Common Cents Liquor has pulled together as our favorite St. Patty’s Day drinks. Obviously, Irish whiskey will be a major player, truth be told it’s almost impossible to create a St. Patrick’s Day themed cocktail list without it. Let’s hop in and see what in the four-leaf clover is out there for truly delectable Irish themed drinks. 

The Classic Irish Coffee

If you're a coffee lover with a fondness for spirits, then the Irish coffee is a cocktail you don't want to miss out on. Known for its comforting combination of hot coffee and potent Irish whiskey, these signature cocktail is best enjoyed on those cool spring nights. Add a touch of fluffy whipped cream and create a luxurious finish to this delightful drink.

Servings 1 | Prep-Time 2 Min| ⭐⭐⭐⭐

The result is a visually stunning cocktail with a taste that's even better. The comforting warmth of the coffee coupled with the intense flavor of the whiskey it’s no wonder why we call this one a classic. 

The Refreshing Irish Maid

The Irish Maid, a vibrant cocktail that makes our list, promises a burst of refreshing flavors. This libation showcases the versatility of Irish whiskey by mingling it with the fresh, tart taste of lemon juice, the sweetness of simple syrup, and the distinctive hint of muddled cucumber slices. The Irish Maid is truly like a sip of what we can only assume an invigorating Irish spring morning would taste like.

Servings 1 | Prep-Time 2 Min|⭐⭐⭐⭐

The resulting cocktail provides a tantalizing combination of flavors that are sure to please your palate. The crisp cucumber beautifully complements the warmth of the whiskey, while the lemon adds a zesty note, and the simple syrup provides just the right amount of sweetness. The Irish Maid is a satisfying cocktail that perfectly embodies the spirit of Irish mixology. Its refreshing nature makes it an ideal choice for warm days or as a palate cleanser at your next cocktail party. 

The Potent Black Velvet

Introducing the Black Velvet, this unique concoction is ideal for St. Patrick's Day celebrations, masterfully blends the robust flavors of stout beer with the light sweetness of champagne, crafting a drink that is nothing short of unforgettable.

Servings 1 | Prep-Time 2 Min|⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐  

When it comes to creating the Black Velvet, the procedure is straightforward. You will need equal measurements of stout beer and champagne. Begin by pouring the stout beer into a flute until it's half full. Next, carefully pour the champagne on top. Be very careful to maintain the distinct layers, avoiding mixing of the stout and champagne.

The result is a cocktail rich in flavors and creamy in texture with the bitterness of the stout balanced beautifully by the sweetness of the champagne. The velvety texture only adds to its allure, making it a must-try for those looking to explore Irish cocktails. 

The Creamy Irish BoilermakerThe intriguing Irish Boilermaker, despite its interesting name, is a drink that is all about celebration and good cheer. Characterized by its potent mix of Irish stout, Irish whiskey, and Irish cream, this creamy concoction is truly a treat that is as fun to consume as it is to make.

Servings 1 | Prep-Time 3 Min|⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

We cannot stress enough how important it is to sip this cocktail quickly to avoid curdling and experience the full range of flavors in their prime. The richness of the Irish cream harmonizes perfectly with the deep tones of the whiskey and stout.

The Irish Boilermaker may have a distinctive name, but its captivating combination of ingredients and the enjoyable ritual of drinking it make it a must-try for those looking for something fun and new. Just remember, this one is not for the faint-hearted but for those who love a creamy, flavorful, and lively drink experience. So, gather your ingredients, and get ready to drop, gulp, and enjoy!

The Traditional Irish Whiskey and Ginger Ale
Wrapping up our list is the timeless blend of Irish whiskey and ginger ale. This cocktail's beauty lies in its simplicity yet delivers a flavor profile that's nothing short of refreshing and invigorating. 

Servings 1 | Prep-Time 3 Min| ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 

This concoction delivers a balance of smooth whiskey with the crisp and spicy ginger ale that tingles the palate. The addition of lime introduces a subtle tartness, adding an extra layer of complexity to the drink.

This uncomplicated yet charming cocktail is perfect for any occasion, be it a quiet evening in or a bustling social gathering. Its soothing properties make it a go-to choice for whiskey lovers. But, its invigorating fizziness adds a certain lightness that appeals to a wider audience, including those who usually shy away from whiskey-based cocktails.

There you have it – Common Cents Liquor’s guide to Irish cocktails and not a single one of them your stereotypical green. No matter the occasion – be it a cozy fireside evening or a lively St. Patrick’s Day celebration – this selection of cocktails offers something for everyone. Now it’s time to start your journey through the flavors of Ireland. 

Be sure to follow along with more blogs to come as we continue to explore all things liquor! As always, we encourage all our Common Cents Liquor Store readers to please drink responsibly this holiday season. We only serve our robust whiskey to ages 21+.