As Christmas approaches, the search for the perfect festive tipple begins. While many automatically reach for the familiar green bottle of Baileys, our journalist decided to explore whether other Irish Cream liqueurs could compete with the classic favourite.
The Contenders: Three Irish Creams Face Off
In a comprehensive taste test conducted in November 2025, three popular Irish Cream brands were evaluated: the household name Baileys, the premium Coole Swan, and the budget-friendly Aldi Specially Selected Irish Cream. Each was assessed on taste, texture, versatility, and value for money to determine which deserves a place on your Christmas bar cart.
Coole Swan: The Surprise Performer
Despite being less well-known than its competitors, Coole Swan made an immediate impression with its elegant bottle design, making it perfect for gifting. The liqueur contains single malt Irish whiskey, real Belgian white chocolate, fresh Irish dairy cream, and vanilla, having taken 231 attempts to perfect according to the family-run producers.
The texture proved remarkably silky smooth compared to other Irish Creams, with a delicate chocolate hint in both aroma and taste that wasn't overpowering. At 16% alcohol volume, it's slightly lighter than the others, and the alcohol integrates seamlessly without the harsh finish some liqueurs deliver.
Though normally priced at £26.50 for 700ml, it's currently available at Tesco for £20 with a Clubcard. The brand also offers creative cocktail recipes including festive twists on espresso martinis and summer serves, adding to its versatility.
Baileys: The Festive Classic
As the most recognised name in Irish Cream, Baileys brings nostalgic Christmas memories to many households. Priced at £10.98 for 70cl (reduced from £17.50), it represents good value, especially when on promotion.
With 17% alcohol volume, Baileys works well in coffee, over ice cream, or simply on ice. However, some testers found it could become slightly sickly, particularly after eating, and noted that the alcohol hit comes more noticeably upon swallowing rather than being integrated throughout the drinking experience.
Aldi's Budget Offering
Aldi's Specially Selected Irish Cream presents the most budget-conscious option at just £7.69 for 70cl. The packaging closely resembles Baileys, and the taste profile will feel familiar to those who enjoy the classic brand.
Containing 17% alcohol volume, the Aldi version offers excellent value for money, making it ideal for larger gatherings. The main criticism centred around its pronounced milky scent and taste, which some might find too dairy-forward. Like Baileys, it delivers a noticeable alcohol hit upon sipping.
The Verdict: Which Irish Cream Reigns Supreme?
After careful consideration, Coole Swan emerged as the clear winner with a score of 9/10, praised for its exceptional smoothness and sophisticated flavour profile that avoids being cloying.
Baileys secured second place with 8/10, recognised as a reliable classic that evokes Christmas spirit, though slightly let down by its potential to become overwhelming.
Aldi's offering received 6.5/10, delivering impressive value and a taste similar to more expensive brands, but hampered by its strong dairy notes and sharp alcohol finish.
For those seeking a premium Irish Cream experience this Christmas, Coole Swan proves worth the additional investment, particularly for its unmatched texture and balanced flavour that sets it apart from the competition.
