Bushmills 16 years Irish Single Malt is some crazy good stuff. First they start out by triple distilling their traditional Irish Single Malt (as always). Then they take some of the whiskey and put it in ex-bourbon barrels and the rest the put in ex-sherry barrels. Then, after both have aged for at least 16 years, they mix them together and then dump the combined ex-bourbon and ex-sherry whiskey into used port barrels to finish.
This use of the three different casks in this manner is rather unique to the Bushmills 16 single malt and gives it a tremendous depth of flavor and aroma. It carries with it aspects of all 3 barrels as well as the lightly fruity triple distilled Irish distillate itself. This is the Irish whiskey I buy when I want to treat myself but don’t want to spend a crap load of money.
Bushmills 16 years Irish Single Malt Review
Distiller: Bushmills
Age: 16 years
ABV: 40%
Price: $70
EYE
Ruby caramel
NOSE
Dark, fruity and syrupy nose brings thick rich aromas of port, raisins, vanilla, spice and a dark fruit compote with a nutty undertone. On the back end there’s a light bit of Juicy fruit gum and dried strawberries.
PALATE
Cherry heavy dark fruit with notes of malt, red vermouth, toffee, port, brittle, sherry and that same nutty undertone. Some light notes of candied grapefruit rind and red wine come through at the end.
FINISH
Wine, fruit, malt, wood and toasted grains fade at a medium pace.
BALANCE, BODY & FEEL
A well balanced malt with everything in place. Rich round body and a smooth syrupy texture.
OVERALL
Bushmills 16 years Irish Single Malt and Powers John’s Lane are my two favorite “every day” Irish sipping whiskeys. I love the balance and complexity of the flavors and aromas; the way they work together to build a great drinking experience from start to finish. This whiskey makes me happy on so many levels which is why it’s always in stock in my house and is also the Irish Whiskey I drink the most of in March.
SCORE: 90/100 (range given since it was not tasted at home)