Irish whiskey brand Bushmills has unveiled the inaugural releases in its Original Cask Finish Range.
The new collection is the latest addition to Bushmills' whiskey portfolio, designed to offer new and interesting flavour variations and tastes to whiskey lovers.
Its first two expressions, the Caribbean Rum Cask Finish and American Oak Cask Finish, are being released in various markets through April and May. The liquids were created and the finishing casks hand-selected by Bushmills' master blender, Helen Mulholland.
The Caribbean Rum Cask Finish single malt component is finished in oak rum casks which were used to mature rum for at least seven years before being transported to Ireland. The distillery says these casks impart tropical fruit, brown sugar and dry spice flavours.
Meanwhile, the American Oak Cask Finish single malt component is finished in double-charred American oak barrels to impart fresh wood and vanilla flavours. For this release, Bushmills took inspiration from its long partnership with Kelvin Cooperage in Louisville, Kentucky.
Both components were then blended with Bushmills signature triple-distilled Irish grain whiskey to create the final liquds.
Helen Mulholland said: "The launch of the Bushmills Original Cask Finish range is an exciting and innovative move for Bushmills Irish Whiskey. The Original Cask Finish series adds an extra dimension to our acclaimed Bushmills Original. The series offers an accessible introduction into the world of Bushmills by finishing our signature single malt in unique barrels for new flavour experiences.
"The Old Bushmills Distillery is a special place with a long and rich history where we have warehouses bursting with unique casks, ageing exquisite whiskey.
"I'm immensely proud of the Bushmills Original Cask Finish range and we're very excited to bring our latest innovations to new and discerning whiskey drinkers around the world."
The Bushmills Caribbean Rum Cask Finish and American Oak Cask Finish are both bottled at 40% ABV and priced at €30 (£24) for 700ml.
4 May 2021 - Bethany Whymark