The Tipperarycocktail dates back to somewhere between the late 1800’s and early 1900’s, so it’s been a classic for a long time! This simple drink centers around Irish whiskey, and while some of the proportions have changed over time, it’s still a very simple recipe.
The Tipperary cocktail is believed to have originated in the early 20th century, likely around the 1910s or 1920s. Its exact origins are somewhat obscure, but it is commonly believed to have been named after the county or town of Tipperary in Ireland.
The cocktail first appeared in print circa the early 1920’s in Harry McElhone’s book Harry’s ABC of Mixing Cocktails. McElhone was a bartender at Harry’s New York Bar in Paris, a famous establishment frequented by expatriates and notable figures of the time.
The original recipe for the Tipperary cocktail calls for equal parts Irish whiskey, sweet vermouth, and green Chartreuse, a French herbal liqueur. Nowadays, it is commonplace to lean more heavily on the whiskey.
It’s a simple yet elegant cocktail known for its balance of flavors, with the whiskey providing a robust base, the sweet vermouth adding depth and richness, and the Chartreuse imparting herbal and botanical notes.
Despite its early appearance in cocktail literature, the Tipperary cocktail fell out of favor for many years before experiencing a resurgence in popularity among cocktail enthusiasts and bartenders in recent decades.
Today, it is celebrated as a classic cocktail with Irish heritage, often enjoyed as a sophisticated choice for whiskey lovers seeking a unique and flavorful drink experience.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Sometimes simplicity is best, and the Tipperary cocktail is a testament to that. Despite its origins in New York City instead of Ireland, the use of Irish whiskey gives a nod to the Irish town of its namesake.
With just 4 required ingredients (plus any desired garnishes) it’s not a complicated drink. In fact, you don’t need anything fancy to make it – it’s most often just stirred in a glass and served!
This cocktail can be enjoyed at room temperature or chilled (I personally prefer it chilled). Garnish with a cocktail cherry or a twist of orange peel for a note of zest and the perfect finishing touch!
Ingredients List
2 ounces Irish whiskey (such as Jameson)
½ ounce sweet Vermouth
½ ounce green Chartreuse (or another herbal liquor)
2 dashes orange Angostura bitters
Ingredient Tips and Substitutions
Jameson is a very popular and common brand of Irish whiskey. However, you can use your favorite brand! If you don’t like whiskey, you can also try it with gin, as it compliments the herbal notes well
If you cannot find green Chartreuse (my liquor store only has it by special order), you can use any herbal liquor you like. I have Vigo Amaro, but anything similar will do!
While not part of the classic recipe, you can add up to ½ ounce cold water to dilute the drink, or up to ½ ounce simple syrup for a sweeter version (this is known as a “dead rabbit” variation)
Garnishes are optional, but a twist of orange zest and a luxardo cocktail cherry are the most common choices
Step By Step Instructions
To a glass, add the Irish whiskey, vermouth, green Chartreuse, and bitters, along with a couple ice cubes
Stir well until the drink is well-chilled and thoroughly mixed
Strain into a coupe or martini glass (preferably chilled) or a whiskey glass if you’d like to serve on the rocks. Garnish with a twist of orange or cocktail cherry if desired
A Tipperary cocktail is an IBA official classic cocktail known for its balanced and flavorful profile.
The traditional recipe calls for Irish whiskey, sweet vermouth, and green Chartreuse, creating a sophisticated blend of whiskey, herbal liqueur, and sweetness.
How Did the Tipperary Cocktail Get Its Name?
The Tipperary cocktail is believed to have been named after the county or town of Tipperary in Ireland, though the exact origin of the name is not definitively known.
It likely emerged in the early 20th century and was popularized in cocktail culture during that time.
What Does the Tipperary Cocktail Taste Like?
The Tipperary cocktail offers a complex and harmonious flavor profile. The Irish whiskey provides a robust and smooth base, while the sweet vermouth adds depth and richness with its caramel-like sweetness.
The green Chartreuse contributes herbal and botanical notes, resulting in a well-balanced and flavorful cocktail.
Can I Customize the Tipperary Cocktail with Different Ingredients?
While the classic Tipperary cocktail recipe calls for specific ingredients, there is room for customization based on personal preferences.
You can experiment with different brands of Irish whiskey, vermouth, or various herbal liquors to create a unique twist on the traditional recipe.
Is the Tipperary Cocktail Difficult to Make?
The Tipperary cocktail is relatively easy to make and requires only a few ingredients. Simply combine the whiskey, sweet vermouth, and green Chartreuse in a mixing glass with ice, stir until well-chilled, then strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
Garnish with an orange twist if desired, and enjoy!
What Occasions Are Ideal for Serving the Tipperary Cocktail?
The Tipperary cocktail is suitable for a variety of occasions, though it is popular for St Patrick’s Day due to the Irish nod in the name.
However, its sophisticated flavor profile makes it a great choice for cocktail parties, dinner gatherings, or simply enjoying a well-crafted drink at home.
Can I Prepare Tipperary Cocktails in Advance for a Party?
It is best to mix Tipperary cocktails fresh to enjoy their full flavor. However, you can prepare larger batches of the cocktail ahead of time and chill them in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Be sure to stir or shake the mix well before pouring to ensure even distribution of ingredients. Garnish individual glasses after filling.
Are There Any Variations of the Tipperary Cocktail?
While the classic Tipperary cocktail recipe is beloved by many, there are variations that incorporate different spirits or ingredients. Some variations may substitute bourbon, rye whiskey, or gin for the Irish whiskey.
You can also experiment with different types of vermouth or liqueurs for a unique twist on the original recipe. Water can be added to dilute the cocktail, or simple syrup or flavored syrups can be added for sweetness and flavor.
Recipe Pro Tips
You can alternatively mix this in a shaker with ice if preferred (and if you have one) before straining into your glass for serving
I do consider this to be a strong cocktail, due to the distinct lack of mixers in it to cut the alcohol flavor. If you enjoy your whiskey or bourbon neat or on the rocks, this is a great cocktail option to try
Storage and Serving Tips
A Tipperary cocktail is best enjoyed fresh. However, you can mix everything aside from garnishes ahead of time (up to 24 hours) and store it in the refrigerator. Give it a quick mix before pouring and garnishing
The most common glassware for this cocktail is a coupe or martini glass, but a tulip, grappa, or cordial glass can also be used. Alternatively, you could serve it on the rocks in a whiskey glass, or similar
This Tipperary cocktail is a classic dating back at least 100 years, and for good reason! The smooth blend of Irish whiskey, Vermouth, and Chartreuse is a winning combination.
Of course, you can also adjust it with a little water, ice, or simple syrup if you’d like to tone the alcohol-forward taste of this cocktail a bit.
While its roots actually begin in NYC, this drink borrows a name from an Irish county and town, which is why it’s often associated with Irish beverages. That makes it great for your St Paddy’s celebration, but you certainly don’t need to only enjoy it one time a year!
Simple Tipperary Cocktail Recipe
This classic Tipperary cocktail has just 4 ingredients and features Jameson Irish whiskey. It’s a perfect drink for St Patrick's Day, or anytime you want a smooth, timeless drink.
To a glass, add the Irish whiskey, vermouth, green Chartreuse, and bitters, along with an ice cube or two
2 Ounces Irish whiskey, ½ Ounce sweet Vermouth, ½ Ounce Green Chartruese, 2 Dashes Angostura orange bitters
Stir well until the drink is well-chilled and thoroughly mixed (about 20 seconds)
Strain into a coupe or martini glass (preferably chilled) or a whiskey glass if you’d like to serve on the rocks. Garnish with a twist of orange or cocktail cherry if desired
Notes
Jameson is a very popular and common brand of Irish whiskey. However, you can use your favorite brand! If you don’t like whiskey, you can also try it with gin, as it compliments the herbal notes well
If you cannot find green Chartreuse (my liquor store only has it by special order), you can use any herbal liquor you like. I have Vigo Amaro, but anything similar will do!
While not part of the classic recipe, you can add up to ½ ounce cold water to dilute the drink, or up to ½ ounce simple syrup for a sweeter version (this is known as the “dead rabbit” variation)
Garnishes are optional, but a twist of orange zest and a luxardo cocktail cherry are the most common choices
I do consider this to be a strong cocktail, due to the distinct lack of mixers in it to cut the alcohol flavor. If you enjoy your whiskey or bourbon neat or on the rocks, this is a great cocktail option to try
The most common glassware for this cocktail is a coupe or martini glass, but a tulip, grappa, or cordial glass can also be used. Alternatively, you could serve it on the rocks in a whiskey glass, or similar
Exact nutritional values will vary based on brand of ingredients, any garnishes added, and actual quantity consumed, so please consider this a guideline only
I enjoy trying new recipes, creating my own, and dabbling with new techniques all the time. My husband loves to protest when I make him my guinea pig, but it’s all for the love of food!
My cooking philosophy is that great tasting food doesn't have to be complicated or time consuming to make. I'm a home cook with over 20 years of experience feeding myself and others. I've learned from a variety of different people, things I've learned online, and some trial and error as well.
I enjoy cooking a variety of foods, from convenience to comfort foods, as well as international cuisine. You can rest assured that all of my recipes have been actually made, thoroughly tested, and most importantly: tasted! I want you to enjoy my food as much as I do!
