DIFFERENT bottles and packs, different casks, but the same old quality from Bushmills in their latest, always eagerly-awaited Causeway Collection releases.
Different age profiles, of course, with a 2010 Cognac Cask and 1999 New American Oak Cask carefully selected by Master Blender Alex Thomas for this year’s two Ireland-only bottlings.
That bottle design is eye-catching, with the words ‘Single Malt’ delineated prominently in the glass below the neck – but the contents are what truly matter, of course.
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The 2010 Cognac Cask is a limited-edition cask strength, non chill-filtered single malt that has spent seven years maturing in OIoroso sherry butts and bourbon barrels before being finished in fine cognac casks from the Charente region in France for a further five years.
Thomas is delighted with how that combination of casks has imparted flavour, commenting: “This is a sensational whiskey which we tasted two years ago and laid down again to allow the magic of the cask to infuse the whiskey, and the result is truly exceptional.
“The years have intensified the cognac’s Ugni Blanc grape aromas, resulting in a single malt bursting with ripe pear and buttery honeycomb with layers of deeper cinnamon spice, leather and dried fruits.”
The second exclusive release for the Irish market is a 1999 New American Oak Cask. This limited-edition, cask strength, non chill-filtered single malt has spent an incredible 23 years patiently maturing in the finest virgin American oak casks.
A bold approach, but again Thomas is thrilled with the results: “This unparalleled single malt has spent its entire life maturing in the finest new American oak casks. We filled the casks with new make spirit and left the liquid untouched, to marry with this wood. The fresh oak imparts layers of rich flavour over time – wonderful vanilla intensity, coconut, warm spice and creamy chocolate.
“The decades have amplified the rich oak notes, adding layers of caramelised fruit and cinnamon, leaving a deep, sweet velvety vanilla finish with warm wood spices.”
These two limited expressions will be available through specialist retailers and to purchase online across the island of Ireland from Thursday November 9. The 2010 Cognac Cask is bottled at 53.8% ABV, and priced at €125/£115 for 700ml, the 1999 New American Oak Cask will be bottled at 50.1% ABV and priced at €450/£425 for 700ml.
