Newbies Drink Wine: Irish Whiskey 101

St. Patrick’s Day is more than just a celebration of Irish heritage, it’s also the perfect time to toast with a glass of Irish whiskey! In conjunction of St. Patrick, this week's episode of #NewbiesDrinkWine is dedicated to Irish whiskey —a spirit rooted in centuries of tradition, and an iconic symbol of Ireland’s rich history and culture. Read on to discover what makes Irish whiskey stand out among the world’s finest whiskies!

Graphic from Whisky Advocate that depicts the triple distillation process 

1. Triple Distillation: The Secret to Smoothness

One of the hallmarks of Irish whiskey is its triple distillation process. This extra distillation step helps create the signature smooth and refined flavor profile that Irish whiskey is known for. Brands like Jameson and Bushmills have mastered this technique, delivering a consistently velvety experience in every sip. While triple distillation is often associated with Irish whiskey, it’s more of a tradition than a strict rule in modern whiskey-making.

2. Unmalted and Malted Barley: A Unique Blend

Irish whiskey often incorporates a mix of malted and unmalted barley, especially in traditional pot still varieties. This use of unmalted barley, a characteristic unique to Irish whiskey, adds a creamy, spicy flavor that stands out in the world of spirits. This combination ensures every sip is both complex and approachable, a balance that brands like Teeling excel at delivering.

3. Aging Requirements: Patience Pays Off

By law, Irish whiskey must be aged for a minimum of three years in wooden casks, which are often repurposed bourbon or sherry barrels. Many premium brands go beyond this requirement, aging their whiskeys for several years to develop intricate flavor profiles. Expect notes of vanilla, honey, oak, and even dried fruits in a well-aged Irish whiskey.

4. A Rich Heritage: From Monks to Modernity

The story of Irish whiskey begins in the 12th century when Irish monks started distilling a spirit they called "uisce beatha," meaning "water of life" in Gaelic. By the 19th century, Ireland had become the world’s largest producer of whiskey, led by iconic names like Bushmills. Although the industry faced challenges in the 20th century, a revival in recent years has brought Irish whiskey back into the global spotlight —thanks to both established brands and newcomers like Teeling. Today, with over 40 distilleries across Ireland, its future looks brighter than ever.

Celebrate with Exclusive St. Patrick's Day Offers

Now that you know more about Irish whiskey, it’s time to experience it for yourself! To make your St. Patrick’s Day truly special, we’re offering these exclusive promotions:

• St. Patrick’s Mix & Match Bundle: Choose two Irish whiskeys, a case of Paulaner beer, and receive two free gifts.

• St. Paddy’s Pick: Irish Spirits & Beer: Enjoy a curated selection of Baileys, Jameson, and Paulaner beer, the golden trio for festive celebrations!

• St. Patrick’s Duo: Wine & Beer Bundle: Pair two bottles of fine wine with Paulaner beer for a diverse tasting experience, available in four different country combinations.

• FREE Gifts: Receive exclusive Jameson and Paulaner merchandise with every bundle purchase.

Whether you prefer your whiskey neat, on the rocks, or in a cocktail, there's no better time to indulge. Explore our St. Patrick's Day specials and find your new favorite bottle today. Sláinte (cheers in Irish)!