Baileys and its sticky imitators are now firmly out of the ‘girly’ closet; and there are new variants popping up all over the place. Most, however, are pretty cheap and rather nasty.
So we’ve done the hard work for you and have handpicked only the very best Irish cream liqueurs.
Feeney’s Irish Cream Liqueur (70cl)
Feeney’s is considered by many to be the most luxurious Irish cream liqueur in the world. This brand contains real Irish grain whiskey matured for at least three years masterfully distilled in the heart of Ireland, and rich dairy cream, which together deliver a unique taste experience.
From the cows grazing in the rich pastures of Ireland, it takes only 24 hours to go from dairy to bottle, delivering the freshness associated with this exquisite drink. Feeney’s has won many awards and medals for its superior taste and quality, was awarded the title “Best Irish Cream Liqueur” and a Double Gold at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition and “Best Buy” from renowned spirits journalist, Paul Pacult.
Feeney’s delivers equal quality compared to more expensive, similar products and unlike some cheaper Irish Creams, it lacks any kind of harsh aftertaste. It has a fresh, sweet, smooth flavour that can be enjoyed on the rocks or as part of a cocktail.
£12.45 from 31DOVER.com.
Coole Swan Superior Irish Cream Liqueur (70cl)
In 2008, a brave young Irish couple decided to create a premium Irish cream liqueur. They blended the finest single malt Irish whiskey, sourced from one of Ireland’s oldest distilleries, with real white Belgian chocolate and fresh, natural dairy cream to create Coole Swan – it was love at first taste…
Coole Swan is identified by its natural cream colour and very delicate hue, imparted by real chocolate and that little hint of cocoa. The nose is soft and fresh, then subtly infiltrated with the spicy, sweet and nutty tones of the triple distilled single malt Irish whiskey.
Coole Swan tastes fresh and smooth and finishes with the style and grace you would expect from a premium product. With no lingering after taste or cloying feeling in the mouth, Coole Swan comes highly recommended.
The name Coole Swan was inspired by one of Ireland’s great romantic poems by WB Yeats. “The Wild Swans at Coole” is about the search for a lasting beauty in a changing world where beauty is mortal and temporary.
£22 from JohnLewis.com
Baileys Original Irish Cream
No list of the best Irish cream liqueurs would be complete without the inclusion of Baileys Original Irish Cream.
Made in Ireland from a winning combination of real Irish whiskey, finest spirits and fresh Irish dairy cream, this has been a firm favourite since its introduction in 1979.
Baileys source their Irish whiskey from a number of quality distilleries including the famous Old Bushmills Distillery, County Antrim. The whiskey complements the full, richness of the fresh Irish dairy cream, cocoa and heavenly vanilla that all go into their secret recipe. Together they create a multi-award winning taste sensation for you to enjoy. Serve with ice.
£12 from Waitrosecellar.com
