The Very Last Minute Irish Father’s Day Gift Guide

It’s that time of year again—Father’s Day is here! If, like me, you can’t believe we’re halfway through 2023 already, you’re probably wondering what to get the father figure in your life. While novelty socks and underpants are for Christmas and golf gear is for birthdays, what’s left for Father’s Day? The answer is whiskey. With its modern resurgence and growing global awareness of different styles, there’s no better time to broaden someone’s whiskey horizons or introduce them to a delicious, high-quality whiskey.

As an Irish writer, I know that many Irish fathers typically enjoy their Irish whiskey, whether it’s that bottle of Jameson they receive every Christmas, or their last drink of the night at the pub, and everything in between. However, this guide is designed to be for those who have yet to discover the American whiskey frontier and all the rich offerings that have made their way across the pond to grace our shelves and taste buds. Here, you’ll find some of the best American whiskey options easily available in Ireland, along with where to find them—all within a reasonable budget.

For those whose fathers haven’t yet had the chance to explore American whiskey or have limited experience with it, let’s quickly recap what sets American whiskey apart from Irish or Scottish whiskies. American whiskey, as the name implies, is produced according to strict laws within the United States. These regulations cover various aspects, such as the required grain percentages to qualify as a specific type of whiskey, the ageing period necessary to be labelled as straight whiskey or Bottled In Bond, and even the specific type of container required for storage to meet the criteria of each whiskey type. Now, let’s take a look at some of the most common types of American whiskey available in Ireland:

Bourbon

The origin of bourbon as a distinct form of whiskey lacks well-documented evidence and is surrounded by conflicting legends and claims. However, we do know that distillation was introduced to the US by early 18th-century settlers, and bourbon evolved into its current form during the late 19th century. By law, modern-day bourbon must be produced in America, aged in new oak barrels that are charred, and cannot have any added flavourings or colourings. It must also be made from a mash containing at least 51% corn, with the remaining portion typically consisting of “flavouring” grains like wheat or rye, along with malted barley for enzymes. Bourbon whiskey that has been aged for a minimum of two years and is not blended with other spirits can be labelled as “straight bourbon whiskey.” The unique flavours of caramel, vanilla, and cherries are commonly associated with bourbon, while the brand-new charred barrels contribute flavour, impart a deep colour, and eliminate undesirable flavours through interaction with their charred surfaces.

Rye Whiskey

America’s pioneering spirit, rye whiskey was the first whiskey produced by early settlers from excess grain. In the US, rye whiskey, by law, is made from a mash of at least 51 percent rye – with other ingredients in the mash usually being corn and malted barley. Like bourbon it’s aged in charred, new oak barrels and rye whiskey that has been aged for at least two years and has not been blended with other spirits may be further designated as straight, as in “straight rye whiskey”. According to many, rye whiskey is the great bridge between Scottish whiskey, Irish whiskey, and a American whiskey with toffee, baking spices, and cinnamon being the characteristic flavours.

Tennessee Whiskey

Tennessee whiskey, again as the name suggests, is a particular style of American whiskey that is produced solely in the state of Tennessee and uses a variety of additional processes that distinguish it from standard bourbon or rye whiskies. Most important of these is the Lincoln County Process whereby the newly made whiskey is filtered through or steeped in charcoal before being put into the barrel for ageing. Although Tennessee whiskey is a bourbon up to this filtration step, many argue, including some producers, that this step adds flavour to the whiskey and therefore it cannot qualify as a bourbon any more. Opinions on this differs and therefore the ensuing argument is undoubtedly the industry’s most flogged dead horse. Once this filtration is complete the whiskey then enters a new charred oak barrel and ages as usual with the resulting whiskey being described as more mellow and smoother as a result of the added filtration before ageing removing unpleasant flavour compounds. The most famous example of Tennessee whiskey is no doubt Jack Daniel’s who have been producing this style of whiskey for more than 150 years.

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With this basic understanding in mind, let’s explore the various American whiskies available in Ireland that would make excellent Father’s Day gifts. For convenience, I’ve categorized them into two groups: those readily accessible at supermarkets and those requiring a visit to independent off-licences or off-licence franchises. I won’t include own-brand bourbon products from large chains like LIDL, ALDI, and Tesco, as these often lack transparency, provenance, and adherence to known standards, resulting in very low prices. Instead, I’ll focus on larger brands that boast a proud distillation history and offer high-quality whiskey.

Keep in mind that prices may vary across stores, and the finer options will likely come at a slightly higher cost. Without further ado, let’s dive in!

The Bourbon Whiskies

#1. Buffalo Trace Bourbon – 40% abv – €34 Dunnes Stores

First on the list is Buffalo Trace bourbon, a straightforward and highly regarded bourbon hailing from the longest-operating distillery in the US. With over 200 years of expertise, Buffalo Trace is dedicated to producing top-notch bourbon, proudly naming it after their renowned distillery. This mid-shelf classic is beloved by bourbon enthusiasts of all levels.

Crafted using Buffalo Trace’s #1 bourbon recipe, which incorporates 10% or less rye as a flavouring grain, this bourbon offers a smooth and exceptionally flavorful experience. It combines luscious notes of sweet caramel and vanilla, expertly balanced with a touch of oak spice. Each sip delivers a true bourbon journey that leaves the drinker yearning for more.

You can find Buffalo Trace bourbon at Dunnes Stores, located in their premium spirits section, at an incredible price of €34 right now!

If we’re doing American whiskey with an animal theme, have you got anything better than an angry, hairy cow?

If the mighty Buffalo won’t cut the mustard and you’re looking for something with a bit more majestic flair that hits just under the €50 mark and ups the game significantly, then why not pick up a bottle of Eagle Rare instead? Also from the Buffalo Trace distillery, this lofty 10 y.o. age-stated bourbon comes from the same recipe as Buffalo Trace bourbon, but what it picks up in those added years of ageing is lots more vanilla and sweet caramel – not to mention it clocks in at a respectable 45% (5% more than Buffalo Trace). Currently available from most off-licences carrying a larger selection of spirits and cheapest from O’Brien’s Wines

at €53!

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#2. Bulleit Bourbon – 40% – €32 Tesco

Second on the list is Bulleit Bourbon, a bourbon that looks more like it belongs on the Western Frontier than on the shelves of Tesco and Supervalu. Owned by spirits giant Diageo, Bulleit bourbon is a high-rye bourbon that packs notes of citrus, caramel, baking spices, and a touch of smoke. The hallmark of Bulleit is its high rye grain content which gives it a bold and spicy taste with a warm, delicious finish. This is a great bourbon for anyone looking to expand their tastes to something with a bit more spiciness and also fits perfectly into your favourite whiskey cocktails. Currently available from both Supervalu and Tescos but on special offer for €32 in Tesco through their Clubcard offer.

This is nice, but I prefer something with a higher calibre.

If Bulleit Bourbon is a standard 6 shooter, Bulleit 10 replaces it with a Glock 45. This straight-shooting bourbon is aged a full 10 years and offers a much-improved flavour experience over its non-age-stated sibling. Currently available from O’Brien’s Wines for €61.95 (a touch above budget but well worth the extra few euros!)

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#3. Jack Daniel’s – €23 Supervalu

Probably the most recognizable American whiskey in the world, Jack Daniel’s with its distinctive square-shaped bottle, iconic branding, and celebrity associations make it an ideal gift for that effortlessly cool, classic rock-loving dad or father figure who appreciates the brand and enjoys a whiskey that mixes flawlessly into cocktails (how about a Jack and Coke?). While technically not classified as a bourbon (let’s avoid that debate for now!), I’ve included it here anyway, as it falls within the bourbon category in essence (compromise, you see!).

Crafted from a recipe that incorporates a generous portion of rye and undergoes charcoal filtration prior to ageing, Jack Daniel’s offers a remarkably smooth profile, distinct from traditional high-rye bourbons, delivering a satisfyingly sweet and earthy experience. With its wide availability and budget-friendly price point, it’s the perfect last-minute gift option. And if luck is on your side, you might even come across some gift sets specifically tailored for Father’s Day.

Look, he’s already tried this and loves it but I want an even better-looking bottle and even more complexity – the man has earned it!

If you’re already a fan of Jack Daniel’s and seeking something with even more style and flavour, look no further than Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel. While the standard JD is a solid and versatile Tennessee whiskey, Single Barrel takes it to a whole new level. It features whiskey from the same recipe but hand-selected from select casks that have aged longer in the warmest sections of the warehouses, resulting in a more robust and complex spirit.

Each barrel chosen for Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel undergoes meticulous selection by the Master Distiller and his team of Master Tasters. Bottled one barrel at a time, without any blending, each bottle is individually labelled with the barrel number, rick, and bottling date, showcasing its unique character. The flavour profile of Single Barrel surpasses the standard black label offering, providing an elevated experience. Its ornate square decanter, adorned with a sturdy wood stopper, adds to its allure, making it a fantastic Father’s Day gift option. It’s slightly above the budget range, priced around €60 (€55 in Tesco!), and available at most major supermarkets.

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#4.Woodford Reserve Bourbon – 43.2% – €36 Dunnes Stores

The fourth bourbon on the list is Woodford Reserve Distiller’s Select. Featuring a blend of triple-distilled pot still and column still bourbon, Woodford Reserve has a unique mellow taste that gently beckons without overwhelming its drinker. Long hailed as the perfect bourbon for introducing those that already have a taste for Irish and Scotch Whiskies, Woodford shows off classic bourbon flavours of caramel, vanilla, baking spices, and a crisp maltiness that smells like cherries dipped in dark chocolate. Despite having a high percentage of rye in the recipe (18%) there’s a lot more balance when it comes to Woodford reserve and all the flavours combine to create a very well rounded bourbon that’s smooth and easy enough to drink on its own, yet carries its flavours well enough to hold its own in a whiskey cocktail like an Old Fashioned or Whiskey Sour.

Please sir, can I have some more?

Want more Woodford goodness but not sure how to get it? Luckily the good people over at Woodford Reserve have heard your call and have come back with a solution: Woodford Double Oaked. If ageing in heavily charred barrels gives bourbon those fantastic caramel and vanilla flavours, then imagine what another few months in a cask that’s very lightly charred but heavily toasted will do. Without going too much into the technicalities of it, toasting a barrel brings out all the wood sugars and vanilla flavours from the wood whilst mellowing out any harsh flavours a barrel might add. This bourbon is the standard Woodford Distiller’s Select that has been aged further in virgin oak barrels with a heavy toast and a light char. The results are a bourbon that is darker, richer and has an amazing taste of toasted wood and maple syrup that really rounds out the traditional Woodford Reserve experience at the same abv of 43.2. Personally, I always end up going for the Double Oaked over the Distiller’s Select, and luckily this bourbon is now available exclusively from the Celtic Whiskey Shop in limited quantities for €69 and is well worth the price.

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#5. Wild Turkey 101 – 50.5% – €42 O’Brien’s Wine

The final bourbon on the list is Wild Turkey 101. Regardless of your level of previous experience in whiskey, I’d argue that anyone should be able to enjoy a pour or two of Wild Turkey 81. However, for this guide, I’m going to aim this bourbon specifically at the newcomers to the bourbon table. Newcomers typically want something that is flavourful, well-balanced, and easy to drink both neat or in a cocktail, but doesn’t overwhelm with a crazy high ABV content. This sounds easily done but it’s important to remember that the lower the ABV, the more water in the mix, and the more water in the mix the more you’re dampening those incredible flavours that bourbon is famous for – but not this time! Thanks to Wild Turkey’s way of doing things you’re getting a fantastic blend of 6 – 8 year old bourbons with all the flavour trimmings at a respectable 40.5%. ‘What is this dark magic?!’ you ask? This miracle of bourbon is made possible through the use of heavily charred casks (more flavour) and a high-rye recipe (even more flavour and earthy, spicy balance) which combine to give you huge flavours even at a low ABV (take a bow Wild Turkey!). Always a great choice and currently €28 in Tescos? You’d almost be mad not to!

Dad’s a turkey and ham man, you’re going to have to do better than that to impress him!

Already a few months into a relationship with Wild Turkey 81 and ready to take the next step? Then Wild Turkey 101 is the big Tom for you! Big and bold bourbon flavours await all ye who dare to pass. Wild Turkey 101 was my first taste of bourbon and to this day, all bias aside, still remains one of the best bourbons I think you can spend your money on. Choosing this over the 40.5% Wild Turkey 81 is similar to the difference between listening to your favourite song on a standard car radio versus seeing the performer live, and being blown away by how much better it is, i.e., you’re in for a big surprise in the best way possible. This Wild Turkey expression has those same flavours found in the 81 but at a whole new level. For many the 10% ABV jump might seem like a lot but once you taste this bourbon you’ll be happier for it – trust me! The catch is that this expression isn’t the easiest to source but a quick google search turned up the promising result of it being in stock at the Celtic Whiskey Shop for €45 – again well below the initial budget.

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The Rye Whiskies

Rye whiskey in Ireland is a relatively new category and as such can only be found in good off licences. They may not favour the last-minute shopper with wide availability, but the effort it takes to find the right bottle of rye will always be rewarded with an amazing American whiskey experience. Most if not all of these rye whiskies are available from the Celtic Whiskey Shop, L. Mulligan’s or any independent off licence with a decent selection of American whiskey. Here are my thoughts on the rye whiskies available in Ireland!

#1. Michter’s US☆1 Single Barrel Rye

The newest American whiskey to enter the Irish market, Michter’s Distillery is based out of Kentucky and produces a wide range of whiskey styles under their flagship US☆1 range. The crown jewel of this range, Michter’s US☆1  rye whiskey is a great example of a very well made Kentucky rye. Coming from a single barrel and bottled at a modest 45.7% abv Michter’s style is a whiskey that is both packed with flavour and very easy to drink – with this rye being no exception. As a rye whiskey it’s a perfect balance of rye’s green apple character, white pepper, a touch of tannins from the barrel, and a great proof. An interesting element is that this is a single barrel offering which means there’s no hiding inferior whiskey behind good blending. As a flagship rye whiskey, Michter’s have truly set the bar very high with the level of quality you get and this one is very hard to beat. For a true show-stopper ask about their 10 year old rye or bourbon which are currently in Celtic Whiskey shop.

#2. Templeton 6 y.o. Rye Whiskey

Coming from a distillery situated in the small town of Templeton in rural Iowa, Templeton rye is a sourced rye whiskey and the only brand that you will get an age-stated rye whiskey from without breaking the bank. At 6 years old this whiskey towers over its 4 y.o. little brother and boasts a recipe of 95% rye  with rye-forward notes of red fruit and baking spices galore. It fits seamlessly into cocktails (Sazerac anyone?), begs to be enjoyed neat, and was sourced from a distillery that produces some of the most renowned rye whiskey in America – MGP. With a very reasonable price and bags of flavour in every drop this is another you won’t want to miss regardless of your level of rye experience.

#3. Sazerac Rye

Another whiskey from the Buffalo Trace Distillery, Sazerac rye traces its roots back to New Orleans and symbolises the tradition and history of New Orleans dating back to the 1800s. Albeit not age –stated this is understood to be around 6 years old on average and is the 90 proof version of Thomas H Handy Sazerac Rye from the coveted Buffalo Trace Antique Collection. Known for its versatility, crisp rye notes and solid oak backbone, Sazerac Rye Whiskey was used to make the original, first and only branded American cocktail—The Sazerac. Whiskey aside, the bottle is one of the best looking in the business and makes a great-looking, great tasting stocking filler.

#4. Woodford Reserve Rye

Another Kentucky-style rye, Woodford Reserve’s Master Distiller approached this whiskey with the same laser-keen focus on flavour as with all their other releases and spent the better part of a decade perfecting it. Made with only 53% rye this is another easy-drinking and delicious rye whiskey for those treading the shallows of what rye whiskies offer and is again perfect for beginners or those taking the brave step outside of their particular whiskey comfort zone be that Scottish whiskey or Irish whiskey. Bottled at a decent 45.2% abv this rye whiskey will not disappoint any recipient and comes in Woodford’s iconic flat bottle shape.

#5. Town Branch Rye

Named after the river that cuts through the city of Lexington, KY, the Town Branch Distillery was founded by Irish businessman Pearse Lyons (ring a bell?) under Alltech and has been producing bourbon, rye, and American single malt since 2012. Bottled at 50% abv Town Branch rye is the heaviest hitting of the rye whiskies and gives a traditional rye whiskey that’s aimed at those who have already wet their feet with rye. This rye whiskey is delicious and goes well into anything be it a Manhattan cocktail or just neat into a glass.

#6. Bulleit Rye

Another whiskey from the Bulleit Distillery, Bulleit rye is also sourced from MGP and again features their 95% rye mashbill. Aged around 4 years it goes best into rye-based cocktails but still tastes great neat. Another solid entry-point for those who want to explore some of the best rye whiskies that’s on the market without breaking the bank or without requiring any previous whiskey experience. This one particularly goes down very well with Scotch and Irish whiskey drinkers who are curious about other whiskey styles.

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So there you have it, 16 of Ireland’s best American whiskies with many being readily available for less than €50. I’ve even made some further recommendations (most within the €50 budget) for those that will have access to independent off-licences such as the Celtic Whiskey Shop or others in the run up to the big day. Like I said, most of the bourbons featured in this article are some of the best you can buy for a €50 budget, and now with easier access than ever before there’s no reason for any whiskey loving Fathers or newcomer dads to be left disappointed on the big day.

Should you still find yourself wondering what to get the father figure in your life before the big day I would highly recommend a trip or a phone call to the very helpful people over at the Celtic Whiskey Shop. The reason these guys show up so much in this article is for the simple reason that they have probably the most diverse bourbon and rye selection in Ireland and on the shelves at the moment (especially the more premium bottlings), and their staff are very knowledgeable when it comes to recommending something for even the most difficult of people. Now go forth with the confidence that the perfect Father’s day gift can be as easy as taking a trip to your local supermarket, and remember to sip responsibly (try not to spill any – it’s frowned down upon).

This guide is again very much geared towards my Irish readers, however, a love of American whiskey knows no country lines so if you’re anywhere else in the world and the father figure in your life sounds like he’d benefit from trying one of these whiskies feel free to source them from your local supermarket or off-licence depending on distribution. Cheers and Happy Father’s Day! All prices correct as of time of writing.

Bourbon

The origin of bourbon as a distinct form of whiskey lacks well-documented evidence and is surrounded by conflicting legends and claims. However, we do know that distillation was introduced to the US by early 18th-century settlers, and bourbon evolved into its current form during the late 19th century. By law, modern-day bourbon must be produced in America, aged in new oak barrels that are charred, and cannot have any added flavourings or colourings. It must also be made from a mash containing at least 51% corn, with the remaining portion typically consisting of “flavouring” grains like wheat or rye, along with malted barley for enzymes. Bourbon whiskey that has been aged for a minimum of two years and is not blended with other spirits can be labelled as “straight bourbon whiskey.” The unique flavours of caramel, vanilla, and cherries are commonly associated with bourbon, while the brand-new charred barrels contribute to flavour, impart a deep colour, and eliminate undesirable flavours through interaction with their charred surfaces.

Rye Whiskey

America’s pioneering spirit, rye whiskey was the first whiskey produced by early settlers from excess grain. In the US, rye whiskey, by law, is made from a mash of at least 51% rye – with other ingredients in the mash usually being corn and malted barley. Like bourbon it’s aged in charred, new oak barrels and rye whiskey that has been aged for at least two years and has not been blended with other spirits may be further designated as straight, as in “straight rye whiskey”. According to many, rye whiskey is the great bridge between Scottish whiskey, Irish whiskey, and American whiskey with toffee, baking spices, and cinnamon being the characteristic flavours.

Tennessee Whiskey

Tennessee whiskey, again as the name suggests, is a particular style of American whiskey that is produced solely in the state of Tennessee and uses a variety of additional processes that distinguish it from standard bourbon or rye whiskies. The most important of these is the Lincoln County Process whereby the newly made whiskey is filtered through or steeped in charcoal before being put into the barrel for ageing. Although Tennessee whiskey is a bourbon up to this filtration step, many argue, including some producers, that this step adds flavour to the whiskey. Therefore it cannot qualify as a bourbon any more. Opinions on this differ and therefore the ensuing argument is undoubtedly the industry’s most flogged dead horse. Once this filtration is complete, the whiskey then enters a new charred oak barrel and ages as usual with the resulting whiskey being described as more mellow and smoother as a result of the added filtration before ageing removing unpleasant flavour compounds. The most famous example of Tennessee whiskey is Jack Daniel’s, who have been producing this style of whiskey for more than 150 years!

With this basic understanding in mind, let’s explore the various American whiskies available in Ireland that would make excellent Christmas gifts. For convenience, I’ve categorized them into two groups: those readily accessible at supermarkets and those requiring a visit to independent off-licences or off-licence franchises. I won’t include own-brand bourbon products from large chains like LIDL, ALDI, and Tesco, as these often lack transparency, provenance, and adherence to known standards, resulting in very low prices. Instead, I’ll focus on larger brands that boast a proud distillation history and offer high-quality whiskey.

Keep in mind that prices may vary across stores, and the finer options will likely come at a slightly higher cost. Without further ado, let’s dive in!

The Bourbon Whiskies