Irish Spirits: Whiskey, Cream, and St. Paddy’s Day Cocktails to Try

St. Patrick’s Day is more than just an excuse to wear green and drink beer—it’s a celebration of Irish culture, traditions, and, of course, some of the finest spirits in the world. While many associate the holiday with Guinness, true connoisseurs know that Irish whiskey and Irish cream are the real stars of the show. Whether you prefer a smooth whiskey cocktail, a creamy indulgence, or a creative twist on a classic, we’ve got you covered with some must-try St. Paddy’s Day drinks—served in the perfect glassware, of course!

Irish whiskey is known for its smooth, slightly sweet flavor with notes of vanilla, caramel, and oak. Unlike Scotch, which is often peaty, Irish whiskey is triple-distilled, making it one of the easiest-drinking whiskeys in the world. This versatility makes it a perfect base for cocktails.

The Classic Irish Whiskey Sour: A fresh, slightly tart cocktail that lets the whiskey shine.

What You’ll Need:

• 2 oz Irish whiskey
• ¾ oz fresh lemon juice
• ½ oz simple syrup
• 1 egg white (optional for frothiness)
• Angostura bitters (for garnish)

How to Make It:

1. Shake all ingredients (except bitters) vigorously without ice to create foam.
2. Add ice and shake again.
3. Strain into a Nick & Nora glass for a refined presentation.
4. Add a few dashes of bitters on top for a beautiful finish.

Glassware Recommendation: Luigi Bormioli Optica 7.5 oz Martini Glass enhances the drink’s aroma and gives it a sophisticated look.

Irish cream, most famously Baileys Irish Cream, is a luscious blend of Irish whiskey, cream, and chocolate flavors. It’s perfect for creamy cocktails, coffee drinks, or even sipping straight over ice.

 

The Irish Mudslide: A rich, dessert-like cocktail with a boozy kick.

What You’ll Need:

• 1 oz Irish cream
• 1 oz vodka
• 1 oz coffee liqueur (Kahlúa)
• 2 oz heavy cream or milk
• Chocolate syrup (for garnish)

How to Make It:

1. Swirl chocolate syrup inside a large whiskey glass or a lowball glass.
2. Shake all ingredients with ice and strain over fresh ice.
3. Garnish with cocoa powder or shaved chocolate.

Glassware Recommendation: A lowball glass like Luigi Bormioli Jazz 11.75 oz Rocks Whisky Glass gives this drink the perfect balance of elegance and comfort.

If you’re looking for a drink that screams St. Paddy’s Day, these vibrant and fun cocktails will add a splash of green to your celebration!

 

The Shamrock Martini: A festive green martini with a minty, creamy twist. 

What You’ll Need:

• 1 ½ oz Irish whiskey
• 1 oz Irish cream
• ½ oz crème de menthe (green)
• Ice

How to Make It:

1. Shake all ingredients with ice.
2. Strain into a chilled martini glass.
3. Garnish with a mint leaf or a chocolate shamrock.

Glassware Recommendation: A classic martini glass like Luigi Bormioli Atelier 10 oz Cocktail Glass enhances the drink’s elegance while showing off its bright green color.

More Ways to Serve Irish Spirits

• Neat or On the Rocks – If you’re a purist, a high-quality Irish whiskey like Redbreast 12-Year-Old or Jameson Black Barrel is best enjoyed in a whiskey tumbler. Try the Diamante 12.75 oz DOF Glass for a timeless look.

• Irish Coffee – The iconic combination of hot coffee, Irish whiskey, brown sugar, and a layer of cream is best served in an glass mug to showcase its beautiful layers, for example the Luigi Bormioli Thermic 14 oz Glass.

 

St. Patrick’s Day is all about celebration, tradition, and great drinks, and there’s no better way to honor the occasion than with classic Irish whiskey and creamy indulgences. Whether you prefer your drinks bold and strong or smooth and sweet, there’s an Irish inspired cocktail for every taste. So gather your friends, shake up something festive, and raise a glass to good times, great company, and the spirit of Ireland! Sláinte!