Irish Mist

The Irish Mist recipe refers to an ancient drink known as ‘Heather Wine’, which the Irish prepared hundreds of years ago. This drink was mixed from Irish whiskey, honey and wild herbs. After centuries of oblivion, it was revived in the mid-20th century by a team led by Desmond Williams from the Tullamore distilling family.

The Irish Mist brand itself was created in 1947 at the Tullamore Distillery. At a time when Irish whiskey was in crisis and losing market share, the liqueur, based on a traditional recipe, was intended to help open up new opportunities. Irish Mist was the first Irish whiskey liqueur to be launched on the international market and became the basis for a category that was later followed by other brands.

Irish Mist combines smooth Irish whiskey with honey, which adds sweetness and smoothness, aromatic herbs, and subtle spicy notes. The result is a liqueur with an alcohol content of 35 % ABV, which retains the character of whiskey, but is sweeter and more accessible. The flavour is rich, honey-caramel, with subtle notes of vanilla, cloves, herbs and a long, warm finish.

Thanks to its subtle sweetness, Irish Mist has found a wide audience beyond traditional whiskey lovers – especially among those who seek drinks with lower alcohol content and richer flavour.

Throughout its history, Irish Mist has had several owners. It originally belonged to the Tullamore Distillery, later becoming part of various portfolios. Today, it belongs to the Campari Group, which distributes it to markets worldwide.

Interesting facts:
Irish Mist is considered the first Irish whiskey-based liqueur, opening up an entire category that was later followed by products such as Baileys and Carolans.
Irish Mist bottles were traditionally decorated with Celtic motifs, emphasising its connection to Irish heritage.