Irish cream
# Irish cream

Irish cream (Irish: uachtar na hÉireann, uachtar Éireannach) is a cream liqueur based on Irish whiskey, cream and other flavourings. It typically has an ABV (alcohol by volume) level of 15 to 20% and is served on its own or in mixed drinks, most commonly Irish coffee. Its largest markets are the United Kingdom, Canada and the United States.

It is not a traditional Irish product, as the first version of it, Baileys, was invented in 1973 by Englishman Tom Jago in London, in response to a marketing brief from Gilbeys of Ireland (a division of International Distillers & Vintners). Nevertheless, within the European Union, Irish cream is a protected geographical indicator product that must be produced in Ireland.

## Brands

Top brands of Irish cream include Baileys, Kerrygold, Carolans and Saint Brendan's. The largest manufacturer is Diageo.

## Use

Irish cream is served straight, on the rocks or in mixed drinks, often in combination with Kahlúa in an Irish coffee or hot chocolate. It is also a common addition to White Russians. Some use Irish cream to flavour desserts and other sweet treats.

