Ireland’s Favourite Whiskey: Discover the Top Picks from the Community

There are few questions in Ireland more likely to spark friendly debate than this one: what’s the best Irish whiskey?
So we put it to the Love Ireland community — and the response was instant, passionate, and wonderfully opinionated.

Ireland’s Favourite Whiskey? The Community Has Spoken

With over 1,300 votes, thousands reached, and dozens of heartfelt comments, the poll revealed not just a winner, but a deeper story about nostalgia, access, memory, and personal taste.

The Clear Winner: Jameson

Jameson came out comfortably on top, taking around 40% of the vote.
For many, it’s the first Irish whiskey they ever tried — smooth, familiar, and easy to find almost anywhere in the world.

One member put it simply:

“Definitely JAMESON”

For others, Jameson represents Ireland itself — a dependable classic that needs no explanation.

Redbreast and Bushmills: The Connoisseurs’ Choices

Coming next were Redbreast and Bushmills, each with strong showings and loyal supporters.

Redbreast was repeatedly described as a first choice for those who enjoy a richer, more complex sip:

“Redbreast 1st, then Jameson’s 2nd.”

Bushmills drew praise not just for the whiskey, but for the experience:

“Bushmills is a better tour than Jameson and very nice drink.”

It’s a reminder that Irish whiskey isn’t just about taste — it’s about place, history, and the stories attached to each bottle.

Tullamore D.E.W., Teeling, and the Rising Names

Tullamore D.E.W. featured heavily in the comments, often described as reliable and versatile — neat, on the rocks, or with a splash of water.

Teeling sparked pride and enthusiasm, especially from those delighted to see modern Irish distilling thriving again:

“Teelings… real, native IRISH award-winning whiskey. Give it a go.”

These newer voices show how Irish whiskey continues to evolve while staying rooted in tradition.

The Bottles We Dream Of

Some comments weren’t about everyday pours, but once-in-a-lifetime drams:

• Bushmills 35-Year-Old — admired, even if out of reach
• Midleton Barry Crockett Legacy — remembered fondly and rationed carefully
• Green Spot and Yellow Spot — mentioned with pure affection

And then there are the unexpected discoveries:

“I love the Dubliner honeycomb whiskey. First tried it at Dublin airport… very happy on my flight home.”

What This Poll Really Shows

More than anything, this poll revealed something deeply Irish: there’s no single right answer.
Taste depends on memory, availability, mood, and where you first discovered a whiskey — whether in a quiet pub, an airport lounge, or thousands of miles from Ireland.

Irish whiskey isn’t just a drink.
It’s a connection.

If you missed the poll, keep an eye on the Love Ireland community — the next great Irish debate is never far away. For our full guide with tasting notes, see our guide to the best Irish whiskey.

For those who love Irish culture and food, exploring the world of Irish whiskey pairs wonderfully with traditional Irish recipes like our Irish soda bread recipe or Chris’s beloved Traditional Irish Soda Bread. You might also enjoy the comforting flavours of a traditional Irish stew recipe or the hearty taste of a Dublin Coddle recipe. For a sweet finish, try pairing your dram with an Irish Bread and Butter Pudding.

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Secure Your Dream Irish Experience Before It’s Gone!

Planning a trip to Ireland? Don’t let sold-out tours or packed attractions spoil your journey. Iconic experiences like visiting the Cliffs of Moher, exploring the Rock of Cashel, or enjoying a guided walk through Ireland’s ancient past often sell out quickly—especially during peak travel seasons.

Booking in advance guarantees your place and ensures you can fully immerse yourself in the rich culture and breathtaking scenery without stress or disappointment. You’ll also free up time to explore Ireland’s hidden gems and savour those authentic moments that make your trip truly special.

Make the most of your journey—start planning today and secure those must-do experiences before they’re gone!