Light, refreshing, and elegantly balanced, the Irish Maid is a modern whiskey cocktail with a crisp and floral twist. The smooth warmth of Irish whiskey pairs beautifully with the delicate sweetness of elderflower liqueur, while fresh lemon juice and simple syrup add a bright, citrusy touch. Muddled cucumber enhances the drink with a cool, refreshing essence, making it an ideal choice for whiskey lovers looking for something lighter and more botanical. Served over ice and garnished with a cucumber slice, this sophisticated cocktail is perfect for warm afternoons, celebrations, or simply sipping in style!
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Tasting Notes
The Irish Maid is a light, floral, and refreshing whiskey cocktail with delicate cucumber and elderflower notes balanced by bright lemon acidity and subtle sweetness. The Irish whiskey provides a smooth, slightly honeyed base, while elderflower liqueur adds a fragrant, floral complexity. The cucumber brings a fresh, cooling element, making this a crisp and elegant whiskey cocktail.
Equipment and Glassware
You’ll need a cocktail shaker for mixing, a muddler for releasing cucumber flavors, a strainer for a smooth pour, and a rocks or highball glass for serving. A jigger ensures precise measurements.
Ingredients
- 2 oz Irish whiskey
- 1/2 oz elderflower liqueur
- 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 oz simple syrup
- 2 cucumber slices plus more for garnish
Instructions
- In your shaker, muddle the cucumber slices to release their flavor.
- Add the Irish whiskey, elderflower liqueur, lemon juice, simple syrup, and ice.
- Shake well until everything is nicely chilled.
- Strain into your highball glass filled with ice.
- Garnish with a slice of cucumber to make it look as good as it tastes.
Pro Tips
- For extra freshness, use an English or Persian cucumber for a milder, sweeter taste.
- Double straining ensures a smooth drink without bits of muddled cucumber.
- For a bubbly twist, top with club soda for a lighter, effervescent version.
- If you prefer a slightly sweeter cocktail, increase the simple syrup to ½ oz.
- For an extra herbal touch, add a small sprig of fresh mint while muddling the cucumber.
When to Serve
The Irish Maid is perfect for spring and summer sipping, St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, or as an elegant whiskey cocktail for any occasion. It’s a great choice for those who love whiskey but want something light, floral, and refreshing.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
For the best results, use a smooth Irish whiskey like Jameson, Bushmills, or Tullamore D.E.W.. St-Germain is the most well-known elderflower liqueur, offering the perfect floral balance.
Similar Cocktails
If you enjoy Irish Maid, here are five similar cocktails to try:
Ingredients
- 2 oz Irish whiskey
- 1/2 oz elderflower liqueur
- 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 oz simple syrup
- 2 cucumber slices plus more for garnish
Instructions
- In your shaker, muddle the cucumber slices to release their flavor.
- Add the Irish whiskey, elderflower liqueur, lemon juice, simple syrup, and ice.
- Shake well until everything is nicely chilled.
- Strain into your highball glass filled with ice.
- Garnish with a slice of cucumber to make it look as good as it tastes.