Probably the first alcohol I’ve tasted besides cheap beer. Since I have a sweet tooth, it’s no wonder I fell instantly in love with Baileys. Even now, years later, I sometimes feel the need for a dessert in the evening & Whiskey Creams are often what ends up in my glass. Since it is mostly consumed on ice or at least cold, I’ve decided to include Baileys on ice in my tasting as well as my traditional Glencairn at room temperature.
“A staple whiskey cream…”
Baileys Original Irish Cream
Made by Diageo
Type: Irish Whiskey Cream
Region: Dublin, Republic of Ireland
Age: N/A
ABV: 17% (34 proof)
Ingredients: Irish Whiskey from various distilleries, Cream, Cocoa extract, Vanilla
Colouring: No mention, but probably.
Appearance: 8/10
Baileys comes in its classic tall black bottle with a metal screw cap. As always, a cork top would have rendered the experience a little better, helping to keep oxygen away while leaving the alcohol in. Otherwise, it is practical & the opacity of the bottle makes me feel safe about the light rays. Most people will advise keeping it in the refrigerator in order to stop it from spoiling due to the presence of dairies, but the alcohol in it helps to protect against bacteria. Even the label doesn’t specify any recommendation, only mentioning keeping it between 0–25°C & that it tastes better refrigerated. In the glass it appears a light latte colour with a white meniscus. When swirled around, a thin milky residue stays on the sides & some white legs forms here & there falling back slowly. When poured on ice, the cream takes on a paler hue & leaves a more diffuse film on the sides of the glass.
Nose: 10/15
The aromas bring me to my childhood with notes of chocolate milk, cream & vanilla. However, I discern an aggressive ethanol perfume which forces me to take a pause between before smelling again. The bouquet evokes some biscotti, latte & faint baking spices as well. Not much complexity but it delivers precise aromas.
Mouth: 10/15
A light acidity & ethanol bite are present when at room temperature & it quickly disappears when served colder. However, the warmer it is & the more intense are the aromas giving a caramel & chocolate bar with some toasted almonds & vanilla angel food cake. The texture is decadent with a rich creaminess & a substantial sweetness allowing for a real treat. Even if the flavours are more present at a warmer temperature, the ethanol is too powerful & the acidity makes it unpleasant, so I strongly suggest sticking to what the label says & to drink it refrigerated. When served as such, the palate reflects the same aromas as on the nose with a similar degree of intensity.
Finish: 8/10
The finish is pretty long with some milk, biscotti, chocolate & vanilla lingering. The lipids of the cream stick to the palate for a while & the sweetness stays forever. Be prepared for a satisfying dessert.
Overall: 72/100
A staple whiskey cream for all people who like sweet alcoholic beverages. I must admit I haven’t tasted a lot of Whiskey Creams, let along Irish Whiskey Creams, so my reviews will probably get more precise as I pursue my adventure. I can say with almost no doubt that Baileys will still find its way back in my glass one day.
3-word Description:
Sweet, Milk & Chocolate.
The Reference
More information @baileys.com
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