Merrys Irish Cream Liqueur

Irish cream liqueur, including Baileys and its equivalents, has a recommended shelf life of six months to two years after opening, depending on storage conditions. Refrigeration after opening is strongly recommended. Signs of spoilage include curdling, a sour or off smell, or separation that does not resolve after shaking. The dairy content degrades over time regardless of the alcohol content, which at 17% ABV is insufficient to fully preserve the cream component indefinitely.

A standard 50ml measure of Irish cream liqueur at 17% ABV contains approximately 170 to 185 calories, making it one of the more calorie dense spirits by measure. The calorie count is higher than a standard whiskey pour due to the cream and sugar content in addition to the alcohol. Reduced fat or light versions of Irish cream liqueurs are available and typically contain around 30% fewer calories per measure.

Irish cream liqueur is most commonly served over ice in a rocks glass, which slightly reduces its viscous mouthfeel and makes the vanilla, cream, and whiskey character more refreshing. It is also a classic floated component in an Irish Coffee. In cocktails, it works well shaken with vodka and espresso in a Mudslide or Espresso Martini variant. At room temperature the sweetness and dairy richness can become cloying for extended drinking, making ice the default and most appropriate serve.

Irish cream liqueur is made by blending Irish whiskey with fresh dairy cream, chocolate or cocoa flavouring, vanilla, and sugar in specific proportions that create a stable, shelf stable emulsion. The whiskey's alcohol acts as a partial preservative. Commercial production uses homogenisation to prevent separation and extend shelf life. Home versions can be made by blending 240ml Irish whiskey with 400ml condensed milk, 400ml double cream, 2 tablespoons of chocolate syrup, and vanilla extract, though shelf life will be significantly shorter.

You can order Irish cream liqueur online here at Celtic Whiskey Shop with nationwide delivery across Ireland and international shipping available. We stock Baileys Irish Cream alongside a range of craft Irish cream liqueurs and flavoured variants. Prefer to browse in person? Visit us at 27 28 Dawson Street, Dublin 2, open 7 days. Our team will help you find the right expression for your preference.