St. Patrick's Day (celebrated globally on March 17th) is not just a cultural and religious celebration but also an occasion marked by the enjoyment of various alcoholic spirits. While the day honors the patron saint of Ireland, St. Patrick, it has evolved into a broader celebration of Irish culture, and with it, a focus on traditional Irish drinks as well as themed beverages. Here’s a look at some of the alcoholic spirits commonly associated with St. Patrick's Day:
Irish Whiskey
Irish whiskey is perhaps the most iconic spirit associated with St. Patrick’s Day. Known for its smooth, triple-distilled character, it holds a place of pride in Ireland's drinking culture. Brands like Jameson, Bushmills, and Tullamore D.E.W. are among the popular choices. Irish whiskey can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in various cocktails. A classic Irish coffee, which combines coffee, Irish whiskey, sugar, and cream, is a popular choice on St. Patrick's Day.
Guinness and Irish Stouts
While technically not a spirit, no St. Patrick’s Day celebration would be complete without a mention of Guinness, the famous Irish stout. Its rich, creamy texture and distinct dark colour with a hint of a bitter finish make it a staple during the celebrations. Other Irish stouts and ales also gain prominence, enjoyed in pubs and gatherings.
Baileys Irish Cream
Baileys, a blend of Irish whiskey and cream, is another popular choice. It’s known for its rich, creamy texture and slightly sweet profile, making it a versatile spirit suitable for sipping over ice, using in desserts, or adding to coffee. For St. Patrick’s Day, Baileys can be incorporated into a variety of themed cocktails and is especially popular in 'Irish Car Bombs' - a mix of Baileys, Irish whiskey, and Guinness.
Poitín
Poitín (or potcheen), a traditional Irish distilled beverage, has seen a resurgence in popularity. This clear spirit, once illegal, is similar to moonshine and can be made from barley, potatoes, or sugar beets. Modern legal versions of Poitín are available and offer a taste of Irish history.
Green-Hued Cocktails
St. Patrick's Day is also synonymous with green-themed cocktails. These are often made using ingredients like green crème de menthe, Midori (a melon liqueur), or simply by adding food colouring to lighter spirits or mixers. Popular green cocktails include the Grasshopper, the Green Russian, and various customised creations featuring Irish spirits with a green twist.
Irish-Style Liqueurs
Apart from Baileys, other Irish-style cream liqueurs and whiskey-based liqueurs also gain popularity during St. Patrick’s Day. These may include brands like Carolans, or more whiskey-forward options like Irish Mist, a whiskey liqueur with honey and aromatic spices.
Non-Alcoholic Options
For non-drinkers or those who prefer a lighter option, non-alcoholic versions of Irish stouts, mocktail versions of Irish coffee, and alcohol-free Irish cream alternatives provide a way to participate in the festivities without alcohol.