St. Paddy’s Day calls for a proper drink in hand, so I’ve rounded up 9 traditional Irish cocktails that are pure celebration in a glass. Whether you’re throwing a classy little party or just want to try something fresh and delicious, these beauties are here to pour on the inspiration.
1. Irish Mule
Smooth Irish whiskey and bubbly ginger beer are simply meant to be together. Still need convincing?
Grab a glass of this Irish mule and your taste buds will do the talking. The original Moscow mule was actually invented in New York, so I love that this recipe reclaims it for the Emerald Isle. Swapping the vodka for Irish whiskey is a genius move, weaving lovely peaty notes right into that tangy zip.
2. Black and Gold
Rich and sharp, this cocktail comes across wickedly smooth and just barely sweet. Kahlua and whiskey are stirred together with orange liqueur and orange bitters, and that kiss of citrus brings the perfect counterpoint to the bold alcohol. It’s powerful, but beautifully softened around the edges.
3. Luck of the Irish
I can’t promise this drink will change your fortunes, but one sip and you’ll feel like the luckiest person there. That bright, eye catching green is made for a patriotic celebration, and your guests will go crazy for the sweet, fruity mix of whiskey, peach schnapps, pineapple juice, and sparkling lime soda.
4. Irish Maid
Green beer on St. Patrick’s Day? That’s a little bit 1999.
Treat yourself to this gorgeously green, grown-up sip instead. With just 5 ingredients, it looks humble, but this Irish maid is bursting with refreshing, fruity flavor. It’s a botanical dream team of elderflower liqueur, fresh lemon juice, honey, and Irish whiskey.
5. Black Velvet
You don’t need a plane ticket to a Dublin pub to enjoy this Irish classic. With this foolproof recipe, you can stir up the traditional tipple right in your own kitchen. It’s simply Guinness and champagne, and if that sounds a little unusual, be brave and give it a whirl.
6. Irish Manhattan
This Manhattan gets a proper Irish makeover thanks to the addition of smooth Jameson Whiskey. Rich and dark, it blends beautifully with the classic lineup of sweet vermouth, bitters, and a cherry to finish. You can use any aromatic bitters you like, but this recipe especially loves cherry, smoked orange, and alpine varieties.
7. Irish Blonde
This Irish blonde is secretly more of a redhead, with a fiery temperament to match its bright, sharp personality. It’s a bold blend of Irish whiskey, orange curacao, sherry, and orange bitters. Pour it into a martini glass with a fresh orange twist, and I guess the rumor holds true: blondes really do have more fun.
8. Irish Ale
Like most great cocktails, the magic here is all in the ingredients. For this hearty ale, you’ll want a good quality rye whiskey and an authentic ginger beer on top, not that cloying soda stuff. I’m talking sharp, tart, spicy, and sweet, the kind made with real ginger root and just a whisper of sugar.
9. Irish Eyes
Cocktails don’t have to be complicated, and you absolutely don’t need pro bartender skills to whip up something irresistible. This super simple recipe calls for just a few things: whiskey, crème de menthe, Irish cream, and cream.
Shake it all up in a cocktail shaker, or a jar if that’s what you have, pour, and enjoy. It’s that easy!
