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The Irish Buck Cocktail

By Author Ellen Folkman

Posted on  - Last updated:

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If you’re looking for a refreshing and simple cocktail, the Irish Buck cocktail is it! It’s made with just 3 ingredients.

Pin The Irish Buck Cocktail to make later.

An Irish Buck cocktail with a bottle of Irish whiskey and can of ginger ale.

A “buck” cocktail is one that has a spirit base, in this case, Irish whiskey, ginger ale, and citrus. Buck cocktails are sometimes called “mules” due to the popularity of a vodka buck that is known as a Moscow Mule.

What is the difference between a mule and a buck cocktail?

Moscow Mules and any variations fall under the broad cocktail category of “bucks”, meaning drinks prepared with ginger beers or ginger ales, and citrus juices to complement a wide range of liquors.

What are examples of Buck cocktails?

  • Moscow Mule – The classic made with ginger beer and vodka.
  • Meyer Lemon Bourbon Mule – A favorite flavor combination is a classic cocktail.
  • Berry Basil Moscow Mule – A fun and refreshing twist on the classic cocktail, this non-traditional Berry Basil Moscow Mule is delicious and a great way to cool off on a hot day! 

An Irish Buck with lime wheel garnish.

There is a difference between Irish and American whiskeys and if you’re interested in learning, you can read about it in my Irish Coffee post.

It’s really an interesting read and not too long. I love learning about the history of things, cocktails included.

The Irish buck cocktail is a nice way to change up what you serve when entertaining. Plus it’s perfect for St. Patrick’s Day

If you don’t have Irish whiskey it is OK to substitute American but then don’t call it an Irish Buck.

Overhead photo of a bottle of Irish whiskey, a cocktail and a can of ginger ale.

 

An Irish Buck, made with Irish whiskey, ginger ale and lime juice for St. Patricks's Day.

The Irish Buck Cocktail

Yield: 1
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes

If you're looking for a refreshing and simple cocktail, the Irish Buck cocktail is it! It's made with just 3 ingredients.

Ingredients

  • 2 ounces Irish Whiskey
  • 3 ounces ginger ale
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • Ice
  • Lime wheel, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Fill a rocks glass with ice. Add Irish whiskey, ginger ale and lime juice. Stir gently and garnish glass with lime wheel.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 1 Serving Size: 5 ounces
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 183Total Fat: 0gSaturated Fat: 0gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 0gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 9mgCarbohydrates: 16gFiber: 2gSugar: 10gProtein: 1g

Nutrition information automatically calculated. Recipe author has not checked the calculations.

Did you make this recipe?

I'd love to hear about it! Please leave a comment below or share it on Pinterest!

© Ellen Folkman and Family Around the Table
Cuisine: Cocktails / Category: Beverages and Cocktails

Megan Marlowe

Tuesday 26th of February 2019

This is the perfect cocktail to celebrate St. Patrick's Day! I'm going the traditional route and getting myself some Irish Whiskey...I mean really, is there any other kind?! ;)

Terri Steffes

Monday 25th of February 2019

I didn't know of the category of "buck" cocktails but we drink all of these regularly. I like the idea of making this for St. Pat's day. Now to get some irish whiskey!

Wendy Klik

Sunday 24th of February 2019

One of my favorite cocktails is Canadian Whiskey and Vernors (a Michigan ginger ale). I'm anxious to try this Irish version.

Karen

Sunday 24th of February 2019

Ooooh. This sounds tasty! I could use one right about now!

Cheese Curd In Paradise

Sunday 24th of February 2019

I learned something new about "buck"! I would really enjoy this drink- can't wait to make it.

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