Not long ago, we shared our first list of Great Beers to Drink in Ireland (Besides Guinness). After our recent Wild Atlantic Way Epic Beer Trip, we’re back with an update—because we drank some truly outstanding beers, and it’s only fair we pass along the good word.
Here are a few favorites from our latest Irish adventure:
White Hag Brewing – Black Boar Oatmeal Imperial Stout Aged in Orange Bitters Barrels
The name’s a mouthful—and so is the beer. This rich imperial stout blends chocolate and coffee notes with a malty smoothness, accented by subtle hints of orange and oak. Simply put: wow! It was my favorite beer of the trip—and my favorite of 2025 (so far). Best of all? This beauty will soon be available in the U.S.
Mescan Brewery – 7 Virtues Lager
Located near Westport, County Mayo, Mescan Brewery is the creation of a Belgian and an Irishman who left behind veterinary careers to brew Belgian-style beers in the heart of Ireland. The 7 Virtues Lager is light, crisp, and refreshing, with a smooth profile and a gentle touch of Amarillo hops. It’s a great companion to food—and proof that excellent lager can come from unexpected places.
Lough Gill Brewery – Anderson’s Smooth Nitro Red Ale
What sets this red ale apart? Nitro carbonation. The cascade of tiny bubbles creates a velvety texture that takes this already solid red ale to the next level. It’s rich, malty, and oh-so-smooooooth.
Ballykilcavan Farm and Brewery – Bin Bawn Pale Ale
This well-balanced, crisp, and refreshing pale ale is brewed with pale, crystal, and amber malts, complemented by citrus-forward aroma hops. Ballykilcavan is a family-run farm that’s been growing top-quality barley since 1639—and now, they’re crafting exceptional beer too.
Hope Beer – Hop On Session IPA
Juicy, hazy, and packed with tropical vibes—this beer bursts with notes of pineapple, citrus, and a soft malt backbone that brings balance to every sip. With low bitterness and a lingering finish of orange and citrus fruit, it’s the kind of brew that pairs beautifully with a cheeseboard—or even a late-night spice bag.
But it’s not just the flavor that stands out—it’s the story. Inspired by two adventurous Dublin lads who, out of sheer boredom, jumped on a DART from Howth Junction to Dun Laoghaire, snuck onto a ferry bound for the UK, caught a train to Heathrow, and somehow ended up in New York—without tickets or passports. The beer is a tribute to that wild journey. Some day and some beer, indeed.
Bonus Beer
Budvar Pilsner
Yes, it’s a Czech beer—but we had to include it on this update. We discovered this smooth, slightly bitter pilsner at The Salt House in Galway, a fantastic taproom with a curated selection of Irish and international brews. Budvar proved to be a perfect choice for an easy-drinking, flavorful session.
Final Pour
While Guinness will always have a place in Irish pubs (and hearts), these standout brews show there’s plenty more to discover across Ireland’s thriving craft beer scene. Cheers to exploring—and drinking—beyond the expected.
Ready for Your Own Irish Beer Adventure?
Love discovering incredible brews like these? Join us on our next Epic Beer Trip to Ireland! We’ll explore world-class craft breweries, cozy pubs, and breathtaking landscapes—all with a pint in hand and good company by your side.
Spaces are limited, and this journey sells out fast. Click here to join the fun and be part of an unforgettable beer experience through the Emerald Isle.
Sláinte!
