Bushmills Irish Whiskey has once again redefined the boundaries of single malt innovation with the release of its 26-year-old Crystal Malt. This latest addition joins the esteemed Prestige Collection, sitting alongside the revered 25, 30, and 31-year-old single malts. With a legacy spanning over 400 years, Bushmills continues to pioneer the craft of smooth single-malt whiskey, offering some of the world’s oldest and rarest expressions.
The Art of Crystal Malt Distillation
What sets the 26-Year-Old Crystal Malt apart is its unique distillation process, where the sugars in the malted barley are crystallised before distillation. This intricate process results in a whiskey brimming with indulgent notes of caramel and creamy chocolate, which are further enriched by decades of maturation in oak barrels. The outcome is a sophisticated yet bold whiskey that pays tribute to the distillery’s unwavering commitment to innovation and quality.
A Legacy of Innovation and Craftsmanship
Bushmills has always embraced a spirit of exploration, and in 1997, it became the first Irish whiskey brand to experiment with distilling crystal malt. This daring move has now culminated in the creation of an extraordinary expression that has matured patiently in the historic warehouses of the Old Bushmills Distillery, evolving into an exceptional whiskey that exemplifies refinement and complexity.
A Symphony of Flavours
The 26-year-old Crystal Malt whiskey offers a profound depth of flavour, beginning with a nose of sweet floral honeyed apples, mellow wood, and warm caramel. The palate is a luxurious journey through creamy butterscotch, evolving into layers of crème brûlée, roasted nuts, dark chocolate, spiced pear, and warm vanilla. The finish is long and smooth, with lingering notes of gentle oak, honeyed apples, and pears. Maturation in first-fill bourbon barrels sourced from Kelvin Cooperage, Louisville, Kentucky, further enhances its complexity.
A Multi-Sensory Experience with Colin Davidson
In celebration of this extraordinary release, Bushmills has collaborated with renowned contemporary artist Colin Davidson to create The Living Legends Lounge, an immersive digital brand experience. This platform offers whiskey enthusiasts an in-depth journey into the world of Bushmills, featuring exclusive product tastings, brand education, and insights into the distillery’s storied past. Inspired by the rugged landscapes of Northern Ireland, Davidson’s work mirrors Bushmills’ dedication to artistry and craftsmanship, making this partnership a perfect blend of tradition and modernity.
Whiskey aficionados can explore The Living Legends Lounge here
Bushmills 26-Year-Old Crystal Malt Tasting Notes:
- Colour: Golden honey.
- Nose: Sweet floral honeyed apples, mellow wood, and warm caramel.
- Taste: Creamy butterscotch, crème brûlée, roasted nuts, dark chocolate, spiced pear, and warm vanilla.
- Finish: A warm, smooth finish with gentle oak, honeyed apples, and pears lingering on the tongue.
- ABV: 46%, non-chill filtered.
Exclusive Availability and Prestige Pricing
Bottled at 46% ABV and non-chill filtered, the Bushmills 26-Year-Old Crystal Malt is priced at £850 for a 700ml bottle. It will be available at the Bushmills Distillery, online at shop.bushmills.com for UK & ROI consumers, in key Global Travel Retail hubs, and across select retailers in Ireland and international markets from Q1 2025.
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