BUSHMILLS - 14 years old - 40%
The Bushmills distillery, located on the magnificent north coast of Ireland, just a few miles from the legendary Giant's Causeway in County Antrim, boasts an exceptional history dating back over 400 years. Founded in 1608, it holds the prestigious title of the oldest licensed whiskey distillery in the world, a historical legitimacy that places it at the pinnacle of the Irish whiskey universe. Bushmills is renowned for its artisanal triple distillation, an iconic signature that gives its single malts an incomparable finesse, smoothness, and aromatic purity. The whiskies mature slowly in warehouses exposed to the sea air, where impressive bourbon and fortified wine casks, meticulously selected by master blender Alex Thomas, rest. In this emblematic collection, the Bushmills 14 years stands out as a contemporary single malt, designed both for purists and curious enthusiasts eager to discover new Irish flavors. It offers a harmonious bridge between the distillery's centuries-old heritage and an innovative approach to maturation.
The Bushmills 14 years 40% is a refined Irish single malt, aged exclusively in first and second fill bourbon barrels for at least fourteen years, before benefiting from a distinctive finish of about twelve months in former Malaga wine casks. These unique casks, mainly from the Pedro Ximénez and Moscatel grape varieties, impart the whisky with a beautiful ruby-hued color, as well as an exotic and indulgent richness. Thanks to the triple distillation from malted barley, the distillate gains suppleness and elegance, ready to exploit both the sweetness of the American oak barrel and the intensity of the Spanish wines. Carefully reduced to 40% to preserve both aromatic intensity and ease of tasting, this whisky achieves a remarkable balance, accessible yet distinctive. Now part of Bushmills' permanent range, this single malt captivates with its depth, roundness, and harmony, attesting to the distillery's expertise in mastering its craft and the creativity of its barrel finishes.
Upon tasting, the Bushmills 14 years displays a deep golden robe, adorned with copper and ruby highlights. The initial nose reveals intense aromas of exotic fruits—mango, pineapple, apricot—along with notes of yellow fruits, vanilla, soft caramel, enhanced by a subtle chocolate touch. On the palate, the attack is velvety, rich, and elegant, where tropical fruits, ginger, cinnamon, light honey, and mild spices intertwine. The texture, both creamy and carried by delicate freshness, perfectly highlights the extreme finesse of Bushmills' signature triple distillation. The finish, long and persistent, delights with flavors of vanilla, dried apricot, mandarin, followed by spicy and floral notes that extend the tasting experience. At the table, this Bushmills 14 years will elevate a lacquered duck breast, caramelized pork fillet, aged cheddar, refined Comté, or a dessert with dried fruits and milk chocolate. A true contemplative whisky, it is savored alone at the end of a meal, allowing one to discover, sip after sip, the depth and complexity of its aging.
Find this exceptional whisky on Clos des Spiritueux, your online reference for rare whiskies and premium spirits. Enjoy personalized advice, detailed descriptions, and an exclusive selection to enrich your tastings and your spirits cellar.
