Bushmills 16 Year Old 3 Wood

Triple distilled and matured in three woods, American oak, Oloroso Sherry casks and finished in port pipes.

I’m sipping this malt in our newly constructed conservatory, and while the weather outside is frightful. The aromas from the amber liquor are competing with that of curing concrete but thankfully are winning the battle. The fortified wine influences (sherry and port) are evident in the aroma, but leave plenty of space for the other components which include butter, black current, blackberry, allspice and juniper. A really top class smell.

On the palate there is plenty of body carrying rich, fruity toasty flavours. The black current and blackberry combo from the aroma are still present and provide the main interest although other hints at complexity and the finish are rather smothered by bittersweet blanket. These kind of cask finish often leave me cold when analysed, although I enjoy them intensely when just drinking for enjoyment. I would like to try Bushmills at this age or a little older without the port pipe treatment to compare with the 10 year old, sadly this is lacking in the Bushmills standard range.

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