A recent taste test pitted several supermarket-brand Irish cream liqueurs against the reigning champion, Baileys, to determine whether a budget-friendly dupe could rival the original. The results revealed a surprising range of flavors and qualities, proving that price isn’t always the best indicator of taste.
Aldi’s Specially Selected Luxury Edition Irish Cream Liqueur emerged as a strong contender, offering a caramel-like creaminess and balanced booziness that closely mirrored Baileys. While a slightly oily finish prevented a perfect score, its impressive quality at half the price of the original earned it a commendable 4 out of 5 rating. Sainsbury’s Taste the Difference Irish Cream Liqueur, however, stole the show, achieving a perfect 5 out of 5. Its uncanny resemblance to Baileys, both in texture and flavor intensity, made it nearly indistinguishable from the original, especially when considering its lower price point, further reduced with a Nectar card.
Morrisons The Best Irish Cream Liqueur presented a unique take on the classic, with prominent vanilla and oak notes reminiscent of a whiskey-laced milkshake. Its thinner consistency and bold, boozy flavor set it apart from the creamy richness of Baileys, making it a divisive option that might appeal more to bourbon enthusiasts. It received a 3 out of 5 rating. Marks & Spencer’s Irish Cream Liqueur, while darker and less creamy than Baileys, offered a pleasant toffee sweetness, earning it a 4 out of 5. It was noted as a delicious option, particularly when not directly compared to the original.
Lidl’s Deluxe Irish Cream Liqueur, despite a promising aroma, fell short in the tasting, revealing a thin, synthetic flavor that underscored the adage “you get what you pay for.” It received a disappointing 2 out of 5. Asda’s Causeway Coast Irish Country Cream, priced at a mere £5, surprised with a fudge-like sweetness and refreshing lightness, defying expectations for such a budget-friendly option. Earning a 3 out of 5, it proved a respectable choice for those seeking an affordable Irish cream experience.
Co-op’s Delaney’s Irish Cream Liqueur proved to be the biggest disappointment, receiving a dismal 1 out of 5. Its off-putting synthetic aroma, watery consistency, and strange blend of artificial coconut and cinnamon flavors made it a regrettable purchase, especially considering its relatively high price. Tesco’s Irish Cream Liqueur, hailing from Ireland itself, offered a decent, albeit heavier, alternative to Baileys, with notes of hazelnut and a unique herbaceous quality. Its distinct flavor profile and reasonable price earned it a 4 out of 5.
Finally, the benchmark, Baileys Irish Cream, retained its status as a classic with its concentrated spicy chocolate flavors and warming whiskey kick. While undeniably pricey, its instantly recognizable creamy flavor continues to justify its premium cost, earning it a 4 out of 5. This taste test highlighted the surprising quality and value available in supermarket-brand Irish cream liqueurs, with some proving to be worthy rivals of the iconic Baileys. The results demonstrate that a delicious and affordable Irish cream experience is within reach, offering consumers a range of options to suit their palates and budgets. Whether seeking a close dupe or a unique twist on the classic, this comparison provides valuable insights for navigating the world of Irish cream liqueurs this holiday season.
