BUSHMILLS DISTILLERY
Oldest because it is the Best, Not Best because it is Oldest
Bushmills Distillery, located in County Antrim, Northern Ireland, is renowned for being the oldest licensed whiskey distillery in the world. It was granted its license to distill in 1608 by King James I, although the actual establishment of the distillery as we know it today occurred in 1784.
In the 19th century, the distillery faced numerous challenges, including fires and economic downturns, but it persevered and continued to grow. By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Bushmills had gained international recognition, winning numerous awards and accolades, including a gold medal at the Paris Expo in 1889.
Currently, the distillery operates ten copper pot stills, allowing for an annual production of approximately 4.5 million liters of spirit. As a single malt distillery, it has employed triple distillation since at least the 1930s, if not earlier. Today, it utilizes a blend of unpeated and lightly-peated malt. The aging process predominantly occurs in a combination of ex-bourbon and oloroso sherry casks, along with some unique options like Madeira, Port, and rum casks.
Bushmills’s Portfolio
Bushmills Distillery produces a variety of Irish whiskeys, including single malt and blended whiskeys, which have garnered international acclaim. Bushmills is famous for its meticulous production process, which involves using 100% malted barley and water sourced from the nearby Saint Columb’s Rill, a tributary of the River Bush.
The distillery’s portfolio includes a variety of exceptional whiskeys, each with its own unique character. The Bushmills Original is a smooth, triple-distilled blend, while the Black Bush boasts a rich, full-bodied taste thanks to its aging in sherry casks. For those seeking something truly special, the Bushmills 21-Year-Old Single Malt offers an exquisite experience with its nuanced flavors and complex finish.
The Oldest Licensed Whiskey Distillery in the World
At the Bushmills Distillery, you can join their whiskey educators to see first-hand how the craft of whiskey- making is carried out the Oldest Licensed Whiskey Distillery in the World. Walk with them through the living history of the grain-to-glass processes, taking in the incredible sights and scents of each stage from mash tun to pot still to barrel. The tours often conclude with a tasting session, where guests can sample some of the distillery’s finest products.
Award Winning Spirits
Over the years, Bushmills Distillery has garnered numerous awards and accolades for its exceptional Irish whiskey. Here are some notable awards they have won.
International Wine & Spirit Competition
Bushmills has earned multiple gold and silver medals at this prestigious competition, which evaluates the quality of spirits from around the globe. These awards are a testament to the distillery’s commitment to producing high-quality whiskey.
Irish Whiskey Awards
As a celebrated producer of Irish whiskey, Bushmills has received multiple honors at these awards. This competition focuses specifically on Irish whiskey, and Bushmills’ continued success here underscores its status as a leader in the industry.
San Francisco World Spirits Competition
Another highly respected competition in the spirits industry, the SFWSC has awarded Bushmills several gold and double gold medals. These accolades highlight the distillery’s excellence in craftsmanship and flavor.
The distillery’s legacy continues to thrive, balancing time-honored traditions with modern innovations to produce whiskeys that are enjoyed by enthusiasts around the globe.
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