5 Irish Whiskies to Sip on this St. Patrick’s Day

By Alisha Mughal

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[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Saint Patrick’s Day is upon us — that time of year when we don our greenest fare and pay due respect to the passing of the patron saint of Ireland, Saint Patrick. Commemorating not only the Emerald Isle, but also the culture of Ireland itself, which is fierce, strong, and storied. What better drink to pair the day with than Irish whiskey?

There’s no better way to honour Ireland’s history and traditions than with Irish whiskey; after all, in the 19th century, Ireland was the world’s foremost whiskey producer. Though home to Aeneas Coffey, the Irish inventor and distiller who created an efficient way to produce whiskey— consequently popularized Scotch whiskey. Irish whiskey’s appeal continues to be as bold as its slow-burn taste. 

Irish whiskey, as opposed to Scotch’s ease in production, has a more traditionally Irish and brooding appeal. To this day, many distillers keep the whiskey’s reputation alive. Brands such as Bushmills and Jameson keep a tradition that has deep roots in Irish culture thriving.   

So go ahead, celebrate St. Paddy’s day this year in a respectful and authentic way with these Irish whiskies, all available at your local LCBO. [/vc_column_text][vc_separator color=”black” border_width=”2″ el_width=”90″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”16467″ img_size=”full”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]Green Spot 10 Year Irish Whiskey

One of Ireland’s most beloved whiskeys, the Green Spot single pot still Irish whiskey, using malted and unmalted barley, was originally only available at a single store in Dublin. But luckily for us, it’s available the world over now. Offering a captivating combination of toffee and spice, a delicate balance of fruit and malt flavours, the Green Spot is soft on the palate and sure to please.    

Price: $89.95

Where to buy: LCBO[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”16479″ img_size=”full”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]Bushmills 16-year old Irish Whiskey

You know to expect simply the best from Bushmills, a distillery in business since the early-17th century — they know what they’re doing. This 16-year-old whiskey is aged first in casks that held bourbon and Oloroso Sherry, and then in a port-wine cask, giving this single-malt a dignified and layered flavour, at once nutty, fruity, and spicy. It’s a luscious drink, best enjoyed neat. 

Price: $129.95

Where to buy: LCBO[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”16469″ img_size=”full”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]Tullamore D.E.W

Similar the Bushmills’ whiskey, the Tullamore is aged in ex-bourbon and sherry casks — but it’s also very different. Where the Bushmills’ old Irish whiskey is complex and sensuous, this single-malt triple distilled whiskey is smooth and gentle. You can expect aromas of sweet grain and caramel, a tinge of spiciness, along with sweet barley, and a palate that finishes with a soft fruity character.

Price: $33.95

Where to buy: LCBO[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”16478″ img_size=”full”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]Kilbeggan Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey

If you enjoy the simple but still elevated things in life, look no further than the Kilbeggan Irish Whiskey. A fine blend of grain and malt whiskies, the Kilbeggan offers a smooth taste and a warm finish that will always satisfy. Honey, vanilla, and heather make for a delicate nose, while on the palate it’s comforting with hints of oatmeal and a spicy flare. The Kilbeggan can be enjoyed in coffee or neat. 

Price: $32.45

Where to buy: LCBO[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”16476″ img_size=”full”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]Knappogue Castle 12 Year single Malt Irish Whiskey

This 12-year-old single malt whiskey pays homage to a 15th century Irish castle, which, in 1966, was bought over by a Texan, Mark Edwin Andrews. Mark Andrews III now honours history and his family’s tradition and passion by producing this warm whiskey. Triple distilled and aged in bourbon casks, it has aromas of biscuit and spice, finishing on the palate sweetly with notes of honey.   

Price: $73.85

Where to buy: LCBO[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]