Bushmills at its best: fruity to the maximum!
In Ireland it is much more accepted to put your name on a whiskey that you have not actually distilled yourself. These sourced malts come in handy when you want to earn money, for instance, when you just started up a distillery but already want brand recognition (and funds!). In my sample network, I stumbled on a Bushmills single malt that appeared under a different name, but it was picked by Whiskybase. Usually, you are up for something good.
Bushmills is one of the biggest names in whiskey, and only has Jameson and Tullamore ahead of them. But business is booming for the centuries old distillery, as they built a whole new setup next door, known as the Causeway Distillery. In total, some 9 million litres per year can be produced on location, keeping those thirsting for the smooth, fruity stuff from Antrim satisfied. We adore the style made at Bushmills, as the tasting note below will show.
J.J. Corry 23 years old, bottled at 50,9 % abv by Chapel Gate Whiskey
First things first: This is supposed to be Bushmills single malt Irish Whiskey bottled from a bourbon cask from Kentucky with the number 11228. The cask produced 150 bottles for a release by Whiskybase.
Upon Sipping: Long matured Bushmills is always a treat! The nose invokes the word “crisp”, like fresh unsalted potato crisps indeed. Delicate fruits too, from grapes and kiwi to bright green apples, with hints of Riesling from the slopes of the Rhine. A more candied character as time goes by. Taking a sip from this secret Bushmills is like a pornographic experience, so luscious and rich and beautifully thick on the tongue, it is mind boggling. Very big on tropical notes, kumquats, pineapple juice, still some barley in there too, or bread with raisins and apricot pieces. Why not even some limoncello in your bread mix? Yes, we can! Whiskey is the arena in which you can crash your plan and walk away unscathed. Or whatever Brian Eno once said about art. This is artful. With water, we get a more minty smell. The palate remains a creamy affair.
Word to the Wise: Let’s keep this short and sweet: this is an excellent example of a beautifully fruity Irish whiskey, that offers more than just those fruits. The barley notes in this keep it balanced and recognisable as whiskey. I love it.
Score: 90 points.