Reviewed by WhatDrink Editorial Team, Drinks EditorHow we calculate nutrition
Cocktailalcoholic15% ABV4 ingredientsexcellent recipe
Difficulty
Moderatestirred drink
Why: 4 ingredients, stirred drink, requires mixing glass, bar spoon
Best for: BBQ, Steak, Summer
Ingredients & Tools
BaseCitrusMixerGarnish
- 2.0 ozIrish WhiskeyBase
- 2.0 ozFresh Lime JuiceCitrus
- 1.0 ozSoda WaterMixer
- 1.0 ozLime WedgeGarnish
Tools:mixing glassbar spoon
How to Make It
StirGarnish
- Pour whiskey and lime juice into ice-filled highball glass.
- Fill with soda water and stir.StirStirring chills and dilutes while keeping the drink clear and smooth.
- Garnish with lime.GarnishGarnish changes aroma, presentation or final flavour impression.
Best For
Food Pairings
Diet & Lifestyle
Gluten-FreeVeganVegetarian
Make it your way
Adjust this drink
Swap notes
Base spiritBourbon is sweeter with vanilla and caramel; rye is spicier and drier; Scotch adds smoke and malt. Each changes the character significantly — stay within the same family where possible.CitrusCitrus juice changes acidity, while citrus peel or twist mainly changes aroma. Lemon is sharp and bright, lime is sharper and more aromatic, orange is sweeter, and grapefruit adds bitterness. If you swap citrus, adjust sweetness slowly.BubblesSoda water is neutral and clean — it adds fizz without flavour. Tonic water is bitter and slightly sweet, which changes the balance noticeably. Ginger beer is spiced and punchy; ginger ale is milder and sweeter. These are not interchangeable — pick the one that suits the drink's flavour direction.
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Frequently asked questions
- What is a Irish Rickey?
- The Irish Rickey is a cocktail made with 4 ingredients, traditionally served in a Highball Glass. It has an ABV of approximately 15.0%. A standard serving contains approximately 163 calories.
- What does a Irish Rickey taste like?
- Irish Rickey has a flavour profile featuring Lime, Citrus, Tart, Sparkling. The exact taste varies depending on the brands and measures used.
- What food goes well with a Irish Rickey?
- Irish Rickey pairs well with BBQ, Steak. The pairing is based on complementary flavour profiles from the recipe's ingredients.
- How strong is a Irish Rickey?
- The Irish Rickey has an ABV of approximately 15.0%. That's approximately 1.50 US standard drinks. A standard serving contains 163 calories, 1.0g sugar, 5.0g carbs. Strength varies depending on the exact measures and spirits used.
- When is a Irish Rickey typically served?
- Irish Rickey is a popular choice for Summer, Seafood Dinner. It also works well as an aperitif or casual evening drink.
- What drinks are similar to a Irish Rickey?
- If you enjoy Irish Rickey, look for cocktails with a similar spirit base and flavour profile using the filters on the cocktails page. Drinks with matching body and acidity scores on the sensory bar will feel closest in character.
- Can I make a Irish Rickey at home?
- Yes. The Irish Rickey uses 4 ingredients, making it straightforward to prepare at home. You will need a Highball Glass. Use quality spirits and fresh ingredients for the best result.
- What do the sensory profile dimensions mean?
- Sensory profile dimensions describe key flavour characteristics: Body (light to full), Dryness (sweet to bone dry), Acidity (flat to crisp), Fruitiness (subtle to prominent) and Boldness (delicate to bold). Each scale helps you compare cocktails at a glance and find ones with similar character.
- How do I use sensory profiles to find cocktails I like?
- Compare the Body, Acidity and Fruitiness of Irish Rickey with other cocktails. If you enjoy this drink, look for others with a similar profile. Adjust one dimension at a time to discover new favourites while staying in your flavour comfort zone.