Bushmills Black Bush

Every now and then, a blend comes along that makes you think twice about spending all that money on over priced single malts (especially over here). This is one of those times…

Nose - Floral, sherry and sweet. Slightly reminiscent of Té Bheag Nan Eilean at times but much more fruity then creamy. The nose on this is full of orange, lemon and citrusy notes along with figs, raisins, and cherry. Shy hints of caramel and vanilla lurk in the back coupled with oak. Good stuff, good start. The sherry influence is quite clear here but not overpowering. Enjoying it for a while, its rewarding.

Palate - A smooth peppery, dry’ish arrival with fruits, spice and sherry. The balance here is the key winner and something to speak of. Everything works so well yet feels almost restrained at times. But this is far from a complaint. I can only imagine what a little smoke and peat would do to this blend. I like it just the way it is though. Much more interesting than Grant’s Family Reserve and a few steps above in terms of complexity and flavor. Yum.

Finish - The finish on this isn’t long but neither too short - a little sweetness lingers on with some woody notes, hints of caramel, and citrus spice floating around. I can’t say anything bad about this fortunately. As a matter a fact its probably my favorite blend now.

Conclusion: A simple-corked classy bottle containing, quite likely, the most balanced blend to date I’ve tasted. Which begs a question, are all Irish whiskeys this smooth? Jameson was. Redbreast was beyond creamy heaven. And now this blend? Another well priced smooth winner from Ireland.

Find where to buy Bushmills whisky