The latest addition to the Bushmills Prestige Collection is a 26 Year Old Irish whiskey made from barley that underwent a “special” malting process
Bushmills has unveiled the latest addition to its Prestige Collection, the 26 Year Old Crystal Malt. The Irish whiskey brand is calling it their “most innovative expression yet.”
Produced using crystal malt barley, which sees the barley undergo an “unusual and special” malting process in which the sugars within the grain of the whiskey are crystallised, the Bushmills 26 Year Old Crystal Malt imparts caramel and creamy chocolate flavors to the malt, which stayed throughout the aging period.
“I am so honored to manage and supervise the aging of all our single malts, but releasing this special expression – one I’ve cared for throughout my entire career here – is truly a dream come true,” says Bushmills’ master blender Alex Thomas. “Our 26 Year Old Crystal Malt epitomizes Bushmills’ commitment to restless progress and our dedication to crafting exceptional single malts for whiskey lovers worldwide.”
The whiskey delivers aromas of honeyed apples that mingle with mellow wood and warm caramel. The palate features creamy butterscotch, which evolve into layers of crème brûlée, roasted nuts, dark chocolate, spiced pear, and warm vanilla.
“I love how beautifully light this whiskey is; it might look delicate and subtle, but don’t be deceived – it’s bursting with flavor,” adds Thomas. “Succulent, deep, and complex notes overflow on the palate. Light in colour, but luscious in flavour.”
The 26-year-old joins the 25-, 30-, and 31-year-old single malts in the Prestige Collection.
Bottled at 46% ABV, the Bushmills 26 Year Old Crystal Malt is priced at £850 ($1,075 USD) per 700ml bottle. It will be available beginning at the end of 2024 at the Bushmills Distillery and their official online shop for UK and Ireland consumers, in key global travel retail hubs, and in retailers across Ireland and other key global markets beginning with the first quarter of 2025.
In June, Bushmills launched a 23 Year Old Irish whiskey that only matured In Madeira Cask.
