Definition

Noun 1. A type of whiskey distilled and manufactured in Ireland: Irish whisky refers specifically to a spirit that is produced on the island of Ireland. Its production is legally defined and it is primarily made from a mash of malted and unmalted barley, which is typically distilled three times.

Usage Notes

• The term "Irish whisky" is a protected geographical indication. By law, it must be distilled and aged on the island of Ireland (including both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland).
• It is commonly spelled as "whiskey" (with an 'e') in Ireland and the United States, aligning with the local conventions for the word. The spelling "whisky" (without an 'e') is also accepted and used, particularly in some international contexts.
• It is typically consumed neat, with water, or on the rocks, and is also a base for cocktails.

Examples

• As a subject: "Irish whisky is known for its smooth and light character compared to some other styles."
• As an object: "He ordered a glass of Irish whisky at the pub."
• With a modifier: "This aged Irish whisky has notes of honey and oak."

Advanced Usage

• "Single pot still Irish whisky": A prestigious category of Irish whisky made from a mix of malted and unmalted barley distilled in a pot still at a single distillery.
  • Example: "The connoisseur preferred the complexity of a single pot still Irish whisky."
• "Blended Irish whisky": The most common style, which is a blend of grain whisky and pot still whisky.
  • Example: "Many popular brands are a blended Irish whisky."

Variants and Related Words

• Irish whiskey: An alternative and very common spelling for the same spirit.
• Whiskey/Whisky: The general category of distilled alcoholic spirit made from fermented grain mash.
• Scotch whisky: Whisky made in Scotland, typically from malted barley and distilled twice, often with a smokier profile.
• Pot still: A type of distillation apparatus traditionally used in making Irish whisky.

Synonyms

• Uisce beatha: The Irish Gaelic term from which the word "whisky" is derived, meaning "water of life."
• Irish whiskey: (Direct spelling variant).

Related Phrases

• "A drop of the Irish": A colloquial idiom sometimes used to refer to Irish whisky.
  • Example: "He poured himself a drop of the Irish to celebrate."

Noun

1. whiskey made in Ireland chiefly from barley