Must‑Try American Whiskeys this 4th of July

The 4th of July is the perfect time to raise a glass and toast with a classic American whiskey. Whether you're hosting a backyard BBQ, lighting some fireworks (safely!), or simply looking for something new to sip this summer, here's your go-to guide to celebrating the stars and stripes in style. These bottles deliver big flavour and celebrational spirit that will give you a sample of the great American taste. Even better, all of them can be ordered from Irish retailers like James J. Fox, Celtic Whiskey Shop, and more.

Jack Daniel’s – The All-American Classic

No American whiskey list is complete without Jack Daniel’s, Tennessee’s finest. Sweet, smooth, and unmistakable - great in a highball or over ice.

Top Picks:

• Old No. 7 – A classic - Vanilla, toasted oak, and gentle spice.

• Single Barrel Select – Bolder oak and caramel notes.

• Gentleman Jack – Double Mellowed Elegance

Smooth and refined, Gentleman Jack is charcoal mellowed not once but twice — before and after aging — making it ideal for sipping neat or in a classy Whiskey Sour.

• Bonded & Triple Mash – Complex, higher-proof expressions.

• Tennessee Honey – Great chilled or mixed.

• Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Fire – Sweet Heat

  A bold mix of Old No. 7 and red-hot cinnamon liqueur, JD Fire is perfect for chilled shots, fiery mixers, or even poured over vanilla ice cream for a boozy dessert twist.

Where to Buy: James J. Fox Dublin, Celtic Whiskey Shop

Buffalo Trace Kentucky Straight Bourbon

A rich, crowd-pleasing bourbon with caramel, vanilla, and subtle spice. Affordable and reliable—perfect for cocktails or neat.

Where to Buy: James J. Fox

Eagle Rare 10-Year Bourbon

Aged 10 years and incredibly smooth. Expect toffee, orange peel, and toasted oak. Sip it slowly to appreciate every drop.

Where to Buy: Mitchell & Son

Blanton’s Original Single Barrel

One of the most sought-after bourbons, known for its bottle shape and quality. Bold with notes of orange zest, caramel, and spice.

Where to Buy: VP Merchants, Celtic Whiskey

W.L. Weller 12-Year Bourbon

A wheated bourbon with a cult following. Often called “Poor Man’s Pappy” for a reason—velvety and rich.

Where to Buy: VP Merchants, Celtic Whiskey

WhistlePig Rye Whiskey (10–15 Year)

Bold and spicy rye whiskey from Vermont with deep character and oak influence. Great for whiskey fans who love complexity.

Where to Buy: Celtic Whiskey Shop

George Dickel Tennessee Whiskey

Charcoal mellowed and smooth, this underrated whiskey deserves more attention. Great with ginger ale or in a whiskey sour.

Where to Buy: The Whisky Exchange – Delivers to Ireland

Quick Tips for a Whiskey-Fueled 4th of July

Whether you're firing up the grill or just enjoying the sunshine, these tips will help you make the most of your American whiskey celebration:

Serve it your way – Neat, on the rocks, or in one of these classic American whiskey cocktails:

• Old Fashioned: A timeless favourite — bourbon (like Woodford Reserve or Bulleit), a sugar cube, bitters, and a twist of orange peel. Simple and elegant.

• Whiskey Sour: Refreshing and tangy — whiskey, fresh lemon juice, and sugar syrup shaken with ice. Add egg white for extra froth.

• Lynchburg Lemonade: A summery Tennessee treat — Jack Daniel’s, triple sec, lemon juice, and lemonade. Fizzy, zesty, and dangerously easy to drink.

• Bourbon Smash: Think of it as whiskey’s answer to a mojito — muddle fresh mint and lemon with bourbon and a little syrup. Bright, bold, and super summery.

  
  

• Or try this simple DIY Whiskey Punch Recipe

Perfect for groups, and a great alternative to beer or wine:

American Whiskey Summer Punch

• 500ml bourbon (like Maker’s Mark)

• 1L lemonade

• 300ml ginger ale

• Handful of mint leaves

• Sliced lemons, blueberries, and raspberries for garnish. Serve over ice in a big jug or punch bowl.

Host a mini tasting station – Perfect for whiskey newbies. Set out three styles:

• Tennessee Whiskey (e.g., Jack Daniel’s)

• Kentucky Bourbon (e.g., Maker’s Mark or Woodford Reserve)

• Rye Whiskey (e.g., Bulleit Rye)Include simple tasting notes and pair each with a bite of BBQ or dessert for a fun, interactive experience.

  
  

Get festive with your garnishes – Add a pop of colour with blueberries, raspberries, and lemon wedges. Perfect for cocktails or even floating in a whiskey punch bowl!

Whiskey & Food Pairings for Your Backyard Bash

Pairing whiskey with food is easier than you think — and when done right, it elevates both the dish and the dram. Whether you're hosting a BBQ or just enjoying dinner al fresco, here are some foolproof combos to impress your guests this 4th of July:

Burgers & Bourbon

Go for a juicy, flame-grilled burger and pair it with the rich, caramel-sweet notes of Maker’s Mark or the balanced complexity of Woodford Reserve. The smooth bourbon cuts through the fat and enhances the smoky char.

Grilled Chicken & Jack Daniel’s

Tennessee whiskey like JD Old No. 7 has that mellow oak and vanilla character that’s a dream with sweet BBQ glaze or sticky wings. Sip it neat or mix it with cola or lemonade.

Pulled Pork & Bulleit Bourbon

Bulleit’s high-rye bourbon brings bold spice that complements the savoury sweetness of slow-cooked pulled pork. Serve with slaw and a smoky sauce for full effect.

Apple Pie & Whiskey Cream

A true cross-Atlantic dessert moment — add a splash of bourbon to fresh whipped cream and dollop it over warm apple pie. It’s like the 4th of July in a bowl.

"American whiskey has long been a symbol of independence, tradition, and craftsmanship. From the smoky barrels of Tennessee to the heritage distilleries of Kentucky, these whiskeys are a true taste of Americana — and a perfect way to toast the 4th of July from anywhere in the world."

Whether you're a seasoned sipper or whiskey newbie, these bottles will elevate your Independence Day celebrations - even across the pond.

Slán go fóill.