title: Irish cream
text: # 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.
  
  