Irish whiskeys speaks of Ireland’s soul in hushed, honeyed tones, telling tales that stretch far beyond the mainstream brands that dominate liquor shelves. While familiar labels like Jameson and Bushmills have long captured global attention, they barely scratch the surface of Ireland’s rich distilling landscape.
Hidden among the rolling hills and historic distilleries are remarkable spirits waiting to be discovered—artisanal expressions that capture the true essence of Irish whiskey-making. These underrated pearls represent a renaissance of flavour, tradition and innovation, each bottle telling tales often overlooked by whiskey enthusiasts.
In this series, we share five underrated Irish whiskies, TheGlitz favourites that deserve a prime spot on your bar cart. From small-batch productions to family-run distilleries, these spirits embody the soul of Irish craftsmanship, promising experiences that will transform your understanding of what Irish whiskey can truly be.
Let’s venture out and explore the extraordinary.
Uncorking Irish Whiskey Basics
Irish whiskey isn’t just a drink—it’s a slice of Irish heritage poured into a glass. To earn its badge of honour, this golden nectar must be produced on the island of Ireland, whether in the Republic or Northern Ireland. Distillers play around with different grains like malted barley, unmalted barley, and even throw in some corn or wheat to create their unique spirits. Most are triple-distilled, giving Irish whiskey that signature smooth, light character that slides down your throat like liquid velvet.
What makes Irish whiskey special is its versatility and legal craftsmanship. By law, these spirits must age for at least three years, allowing time to develop those tantalizing fruit and spice notes that dance on your palate. Whether you’re sipping it neat, on the rocks, or mixing it into a cocktail, Irish whiskey offers something for everyone—from the light and delicate blends to more robust single malts and pot still varieties. It’s a drink that tells a story, captures a tradition, and proves that sometimes, the best things in life come from a small island with a big heart.
Five Underrated Irish Whiskey’s at a Glance
Writer’s Tears
Type: Blended with a unique twist
ABV: 40%
By: Walsh Whiskey Distillery
Popular Cocktail: Tea for Tears
Imagine a whiskey that captures the soul of Irish storytelling in every sip. Writer’s Tears isn’t just a drink; it’s a tribute to Ireland’s literary legends, crafted by the legendary Walsh Whiskey Distillery. Meticulously triple-distilled from a unique blend of pot still and single malt whiskies, this amber nectar offers a symphony of flavours that dance between smooth honey sweetness and a gentle spicy warmth.
Expect a luxurious palate that unfolds like a well-written novel—initial notes of green apple and vanilla give way to delicate hints of toasted oak and subtle malted barley. The pot still component brings a rich, creamy texture that whiskey enthusiasts crave while maintaining an elegant complexity that sets it apart from traditional Irish whiskies.
What sets it apart is that, unlike typical Irish blends, Writer’s Tears combines 100% malted barley single malt with single pot still whiskey, blending tradition with exceptional smoothness. For the discerning connoisseur seeking a whiskey with character, heritage, and an extraordinary story, Writer’s Tears promises an unforgettable tasting journey.
The Irishman
Type: Single Malt & Single Pot Still
ABV: 40%
By: Walsh Whiskey Distillery
Popular Cocktail: Irish Manhattan
The Irishman whiskey embodies Ireland’s rich distilling heritage, blending traditional craftsmanship with a spirit of innovation. Produced by the Walsh Whiskey Distillery in County Carlow, this premium expression combines single malt and pot still whiskies, aged in carefully selected ex-bourbon and ex-sherry oak casks.
Walsh Whiskey produces two distinct lines—Writer’s Tears and The Irishman—each offering a unique take on classic Irish whiskey styles. The Irishman, typically aged for 12 to 14 years, develops a complex character with notes of vanilla, toasted oak, and subtle dried fruit. Its smooth, well-rounded profile makes it exceptional both neat and in cocktails, particularly the Irish Manhattan, where its nuanced flavours shine. With a golden amber hue and a warmth that echoes Ireland’s whiskey-making traditions, The Irishman strikes a perfect balance between heritage and modern craftsmanship.
Knappogue Castle
Type: Single Malt
ABV: 40%
By: Great Northern Distillery
Popular Cocktail: Emerald Old Fashioned
Knappogue Castle whiskey isn’t just a drink—it’s a piece of Ireland’s history in a glass. First built in 1467, the castle’s legacy took a new turn in 1966 when the Andrews family revived its whiskey tradition. The 12-year expression stands out for its versatility, equally captivating whether neat, on the rocks, or in a cocktail. Smooth yet complex, it refuses to be defined by a single style, making it a favourite for both purists and adventurous drinkers alike.
Its name, “hill of the kiss”, evokes the romantic Irish landscape that makes it an exceptional spirit. A pure single malt crafted exclusively from malted barley, Knappogue Castle offers a refreshing alternative to heavy, smoky whiskies. It’s the perfect choice for those seeking a clean, smooth experience—a whiskey that speaks softly but eloquently, inviting you to explore its delicate nuances without overwhelming your palate. One sip, and you’ll understand why this liquid treasure has become a beloved favourite among whisky enthusiasts.
Spot Whiskeys
Type: Single Pot Still
ABV: 40%
By: Mitchell & Son
Popular Cocktail: Green Spot Old Fashioned
Spot Whiskey gets its name from an old distillery practice of marking barrels with colored spots to indicate age. Interestingly, the Mitchell & Son family business, originally a 19th-century Dublin bakery, broke social norms by creating a space where both men and women could enjoy whiskey together. Their clever idea was to serve women whiskey in teacups, avoiding the male-dominated pub culture of the time.
Despite its rich heritage, Spot Whiskey remains an unsung hero in the Irish whiskey landscape. Spot whiskies offer some of the finest Single Pot Still expressions in Irish Whiskey. Each variant—Green, Yellow, Red, and Blue Spot—boasts a rich, full-bodied character. On the nose, expect fruity, honeyed, and spiced aromas, while the palate delivers a silky balance of orchard fruits, vanilla, toasted oak, and subtle sherry influence. Its nuanced state, depth and history creates an enigma to be discovered by true whiskey enthusiasts.
Tullamore Dew
Type: Blended
ABV: 40%
By: Tullamore Distillery
Popular Cocktail: Tully Sour
Tullamore Dew has been in the business of distilling whiskey since 1929 in Tullamore and carries a deep connection to its origins. The “DEW” pays homage to distiller Daniel E. Williams, marking a tribute to its founding legacy. Often overlooked in the whiskey world, it remains an underrated classic—an authentic Irish whiskey that embodies the true spirit of its origin and craft.
Smooth, complex, and steeped in tradition, Tullamore Dew offers a sublime experience best enjoyed with a generous ice cube. The chill unlocks its intricate flavour profile, revealing layers of character that whisper stories of Irish distilling artistry. For newcomers to whiskey, especially those exploring Irish spirits, Tullamore Dew stands as the perfect introduction—a welcoming, nuanced spirit that promises to convert casual drinkers into passionate enthusiasts.
A true unsung hero waiting to be discovered.
