Ireland is well known for its distinctive alcoholic beverages, particularly stout beers like Guinness and Irish whiskey. However, there is one type of alcohol that is unique to Ireland – Irish Poitín.
What is Poitín?
Poitín (pronounced “potcheen”) is a traditional Irish spirit that has been produced in Ireland for centuries. It is essentially a strong, unaged whiskey that is distilled from malted barley, grain, whey, sugar beets, potatoes or molasses. The name comes from the Irish Gaelic word “pota” meaning pot, referring to the small pot stills originally used to distill poitín.
Poitín typically ranges between 40-90% alcohol by volume (ABV). This high alcohol content gives it a powerful flavor profile. Traditional poitín has a very strong peaty, earthy taste similar to some single malt Scotch whiskeys. There are also more modern, smoother styles that are less assertive.
The History of Poitín
The history of poitín production in Ireland can be traced back to the 12th century. Irish monks are believed to have learned the technique of distillation from Mediterranean cultures and began producing distilled spirits themselves. This early spirit was called uisce beatha in Irish Gaelic, meaning “water of life”.
Over the centuries, distilling poitín became a traditional staple in many Irish communities, particularly in rural areas. It was commonly produced illicitly by families and farmers using small, portable stills to avoid paying taxes on the spirit. The illegal nature of poitín gave rise to many colorful Irish legends and stories.
Poitín production was ultimately outlawed in Ireland in 1661 but continued illegally. In the 18th century, the English government cracked down hard on the poitín trade, leading to the “Poitín Wars.” Government agents would smash up stills and pour the confiscated spirits onto the ground. But Irish distillers persisted and poitín-making survived underground.
The Legalization of Poitín
After centuries of prohibition, poitín was finally legalized in Ireland in 1997. This opened the door for poitín to be commercially produced by distilleries rather than illicitly by moonshiners. Today, there are around 25 distillers licensed to produce poitín in Ireland.
Legalization allowed poitín to come out of the shadows. Contemporary poitín is a high quality craft spirit, with various styles and flavors available. While some maintain the traditional character of raw, earthy pot still spirits, others are triple distilled to produce a smoother, more refined drinking experience.
Why Poitín is Only Sold in Ireland
Although poitín is now a legal Irish spirit, it is still predominantly only available within Ireland itself. There are a few key reasons why:
- Tradition and culture – Poitín is an integral part of Irish history and culture. It is considered Ireland’s original and authentic distilled spirit.
- Niche market – Poitín is still a relatively small niche spirit in terms of global market share. Irish distillers focus on the robust domestic market rather than expanding internationally.
- Legal constraints – The legal definition and geographic indication of “Irish Poitín” spirits applies only in Ireland. International regulations vary.
- Savored treat – Part of poitín’s appeal is its Irish uniqueness and scarcity outside of the country, where it is savored by enthusiasts.
That said, poitín is starting to gain more recognition worldwide. Some distilleries are now exporting limited quantities of poitín to select international markets, although availability remains primarily confined to Ireland itself.
Notable Irish Poitín Brands
Here are a few of the top poitín distilleries and brands found in Ireland today:
| Brand | Style Notes |
|---|---|
| Teeling Poitín | Smooth, triple distilled spirit with sweet, spiced flavors. |
| Glendalough Poitín | Rich, creamy poitín with a gentle character. |
| Micil Poitín | Spicy and complex pot still poitín with turf aromas. |
| Ban Poitín | Double distilled spirit with robust earthy notes. |
Where to Try Poitín in Ireland
Poitín is widely available at local pubs, restaurants, and shops throughout Ireland. Some distilleries also offer tours and tastings.
Popular places to sample poitín in Ireland include:
- The Poitín Stil in Carrick-on-Shannon – Ireland’s first legal poitín distillery.
- The Celtic Whiskey Shop in Dublin – Extensive poitín selection.
- The Dingle Whiskey Bar in Dingle – Local poitín from nearby distilleries.
- Micil Distillery in Galway – Craft distillery with poitín tastings.
- Teeling Whiskey Distillery in Dublin – Poitín from a leading Irish brand.
Conclusion
Poitín is a traditional Irish spirit with a storied history dating back centuries. Once an illicit drink, it is now a celebrated legal Irish whiskey that can only be found in Ireland. With its high strength and range of powerful, authentic flavors, poitín offers a unique tasting experience. Sampling this distinctive “water of life” is an essential part of any visit to Ireland.