We love a great Irish whiskey, whether it’s neat or mixed in a decadent cocktail. For St. Patrick's Day and beyond, we’ve curated some of the best picks for our whiskey-loving customers.

Keep reading for the most important things to know about this spirit, plus top recommendations from our experts.

Know Your Irish Whiskey

Irish whiskey is usually made from unmalted barley and triple-distilled, then blended with another grain spirit. This creates an unrivaled smoothness of flavor

Wondering what makes Irish whiskey different from Scottish? To start, whiskey from Ireland has an “e” at the end of its name; when the spirit is from Scotland it’s spelled “whisky” with no “e”.

Different production processes also distinguish Irish whiskey from Scotch, Bourbon, and other spirits. While both Scotch and Irish Whiskey are made from barley, the Irish version is usually distilled three times, rather than two, making it smoother. Plus, Irish whiskey must be aged for at least three years in either new or used barrels. In addition, it must be distilled in Ireland to be considered an official Irish whiskey.

Irish whiskey stands out from other whiskies with its distinct flavor characteristics. Since it’s generally triple-distilled, the flavors are usually lighter, fruiter, and smoother than other whiskies. The aging process also leads to sweet notes of oak and caramel.

Thanks to its elegant taste profile, Irish whiskey lends itself well to drinking straight or on the rocks. Its unique flavor characteristics also make it a great companion for a variety of cocktails.

At Wally’s, one of our bartender favorites is a twist on a classic: an Irish Whiskey Espresso Martini. It’s a deliciously creamy burst of flavor that is sure to get your weekend going. Order it in honor of St. Patrick’s Day all weekend long at Wally’s Santa Monica or Wally’s Las Vegas — just ask your server for the “Luck of the Irish!”

If you’re looking to elevate your home bar or need a great bottle for a party, we also have some great Irish whiskey recommendations from our spirits experts.

Get Your Irish whiskey Shopping Done:

Bushmills Triple Distilled Irish Whiskey

Known as the world’s oldest whiskey distillery — with over 400 years in operation — Bushmills has stood the test of time for making great Irish whiskey. With that kind of history, this classic spirit is a go-to for many of our experts and customers alike. Aging in bourbon and sherry casks makes this whiskey taste especially smooth, rich, and approachable for every occasion. Try it in an Old Fashioned for a truly timeless classic. ($20) Shop this bottle. 

Tullamore Dew Irish Whiskey

We love Tullamore Dew for its incredible smoothness, matched with subtle complexity. You’ll get flavors of both fruit and spice, which is achieved thanks to a masterful blend of three different spirits. With its delicious fruit notes, this whiskey is perfect for citrus-based cocktails like a Whiskey Smash. ($30) Shop this bottle. 

Teeling Small Batch Irish Whiskey

We love this whiskey for its unconventionality. Instead of aging in neutral or new oak barrels, it’s aged in former bourbon barrels and rum barrels, then blended together. This creates a uniquely layered flavor you won’t find in any other whiskey. Look for notes of vanilla, rum raisin, and toasty spices, which are perfect for an Irish Coffee or Irish Maid cocktail. ($40) Shop this bottle. 

Jameson Black Irish Whiskey

This bottle is a favorite among our bartenders and spirits experts. The Black Barrel label is triple-distilled and crafted in smaller batches, leading to an expressive whiskey with delicious sweet and spicy flavors. It’s also bottled at a higher proof which emphasizes the unique flavors Jameson lovers will enjoy. When it comes to cocktails, this is a great option for your classic Old Fashioned or Whiskey Sour. ($45) Shop this bottle.

Writers Tears Irish Whiskey

This beautiful Irish whiskey is a blend of malted and unmalted barley, aged in bourbon oak barrels. The fruity notes of apple are balanced by spices and vanilla. The unique flavors and subtle elegance make it perfect for sipping neat or on the rocks, where you can fully enjoy the complexity of the whiskey. ($50) Shop this bottle.