Bushmills Steamship Sherry Cask Review

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Irish Whiskey
Type: Single Malt
Distillation: Triple distilled, indicating a potentially cleaner and higher ABV spirit.
Maturation: Matured in Oloroso sherry casks, contributing to its unique flavor profile.
Age Statement: No age statement provided.
Color and Clarity: Not explicitly described, but the influence of sherry casks typically imparts a richer, darker hue.
Bottle Design: Features a 1-liter bottle size, priced at approximately 70 euros/dollars/pounds. The label showcases an image of the steamship SS Bushmills, celebrating the 125th anniversary of its maiden voyage.

Balance of Flavors: The whisky starts with a slight alcoholic note, evolving into a complex blend of dried fruit, spices, honey, and dark chocolate. The flavor intensifies in the mouth, revealing ginger and a light bitterness reminiscent of dark chocolate, with a long, sweet, yet not overly sweet finish.
Unique Characteristics: The use of Oloroso sherry casks adds rich dried fruit and spiced honey notes, distinguishing it from other Bushmills expressions.
Comparison: Described as more intense and spicier than other Bushmills whiskies, indicating a unique position within the Bushmills range.

Historical Anecdote: The whisky celebrates the 125th anniversary of the SS Bushmills steamship's maiden voyage in 1890, which played a pivotal role in distributing Bushmills whiskey globally. The steamship's journey from Philadelphia to Yokohama, before the opening of the Panama Canal, signifies a bold and adventurous spirit.
Collection Significance: Part of the Steamship Collection, this release highlights the historical significance of the SS Bushmills and its contribution to the brand's global presence.

Historical Context: The SS Bushmills represents a transitional era from sailing ships to steamships in the late 19th century, symbolizing innovation and progress. The whiskey's story ties into broader themes of exploration, trade, and the spread of Irish whiskey culture worldwide.

"A wonderful piece of work if you're a Bushmills fan you have to go out for that bottle because it is a limited edition." - Horst Luening
"The cask already shows its presence." - indicating the significant influence of the Oloroso sherry casks on the whiskey's flavor profile.

Celebrates the 125th anniversary of the SS Bushmills steamship's maiden voyage.
Triple distilled and matured in Oloroso sherry casks.
Flavor profile includes dried fruit, spices, honey, dark chocolate, with a hint of ginger and a smooth finish.
Part of the limited Steamship Collection, with potential future releases hinted.
Recommended for Bushmills enthusiasts and collectors due to its unique story and limited edition status.

Bushmills Enthusiasts: Given its unique place within the Bushmills range, fans of the brand will likely appreciate this special edition.
Whiskey Collectors: The limited release and historical significance make it an attractive addition to any collection.
Fans of Sherry Cask Whiskies: Those who enjoy the rich, fruity, and spicy profile typical of sherry cask maturation will find this whiskey appealing.
History and Maritime Enthusiasts: The storytelling aspect related to the SS Bushmills steamship adds an extra layer of interest beyond the whiskey itself.