Bushmills 21 year Old Single Malt Irish Whiskey

Bushmills 21 Year Old Single Malt Irish Whiskey is a magnificent and rare expression that stands among the pinnacles of Irish single malt craftsmanship. Deep, layered, and exceptionally refined, it marries luxuriant fruit, complex spice, and elegant oak integration — all underscored by the gentle character that defines the Old Bushmills Distillery style. This is whiskey for contemplative sipping and discerning collection.

Origins & Craftsmanship

Distilled at The Old Bushmills Distillery in County Antrim, Northern Ireland — one of the world’s oldest licensed distilleries — this single malt begins with 100 % malted barley and crystal-clear water drawn from local streams. After traditional triple distillation for exceptional smoothness, the spirit is laid to rest for at least 21 years in seasoned oak casks.

The maturation regimen is distinctive: the whiskey spends extended time in ex-bourbon barrels, Spanish Oloroso sherry butts, and port casks. This careful wood program layers rich dried fruit, nutty complexity, and vinous depth atop the underlying malt foundation. A finishing period in select casks enhances aromatic harmony and structural nuance without compromising clarity of expression.

Critics Reviews

• Jim Murray’s Whisky Bible: Awarded this whiskey 97 points, noting its “exquisite balance of sweet fruit richness, polished oak spice, and graceful maturity that defines world-class aged Irish single malt.”

• Whisky Advocate: Praised it for its “seductive complexity — from orchard fruit and citrus peel through spice and dark chocolate layers” and its exceptionally long, elegant finish.

• International Spirits Competitions: Consistently earns gold medals and high praise for its harmony of fruit, wood influence, and refined texture.

This level of critical acclaim underscores its status as one of the most celebrated Irish single malts available.

Tasting Profile

Nose:
A bouquet of dried orchard fruit (apricot, pear), orange zest, and warm honey, followed by spiced oak, toasted vanilla pod, and a whisper of dark chocolate. Subtle leather and marzipan notes add sophistication.

Palate:
Sumptuous and layered, revealing rich caramel, roasted nuts, and fig compote, woven with oak spice, warm cinnamon, and delicate citrus peel. Oak influence is deep but groomed, allowing fruit and malt interplay to remain at the forefront.

Finish:
Long, complex, and lingering — with evolving notes of dark fruit, sweet spice, toasted oak, and a gentle herbal whisper that carries well beyond the last sip.

Quick Overview

Serving & Pairing Suggestions

Neat (Recommended)
Serve at room temperature in a tulip or Glencairn glass to accentuate aromatic evolution and textural depth.

Food Pairings

• Dried figs and apricots — echo fruit complexity

• Dark chocolate (70%+) — complements oak spice and malt sweetness

• Smoked almonds or pecans — interplay of toast and malt tones

Irish Single Malt of the Year - Jim Murray's 2020 Whisky Bible

Once distilled, Bushmills 21 Year Old Single Malt Irish Whiskey is laid to rest for 19 years in a combination of ex-American bourbon and ex-Spanish sherry barrels, then finally married together for an additional two years in a madeira-infused cask. This intense aging process gives the whiskey an aroma of toffee and dark, bittersweet chocolate. The palate is bursting with raisins, and leads to a long, complex finish marked by mint and fresh licorice.

"Bushmills' sumptuous magnum opus spins aromas of sultana, brown sugar, walnut oil, date slice, chocolate-covered cranberries, leather gloves, and a hint of espresso. The dark, crepuscular mystique continues in the syrupy mouthfeel redolent of forest honey, banana bread, nuts, browned butter, sultana, date, and blackberry. Utterly beguiling, the Madeira finish works wonders here, right through to the last moments of the smooth, sweet finish. A must-try for all." Whiskey Advocate 96 Points