Bushmills Irish Whiskey has announced the launch of the Bourbon #3 Char Cask Reserve – the third and latest edition in The Steamship Collection – a range of Bushmills Irish Whiskeys inspired by the the steamship SS Bushmills, which voyaged in 1890 to deliver the whiskey to America.
The new global travel retail exclusive will be available from early 2018 and follows the launch of Bushmills Irish Whiskey Port Reserve and Sherry Cask Reserve, marking the 125th anniversary of the maiden voyage of the SS Bushmills.
Bushmills Irish Whiskey Master Blender Helen Mulholland said: “At Bushmills we are known for centuries of innovation, continuously exploring the nuances that different casks impart on our whiskey. Bourbon #3 Char Cask Reserve is the result of our long-standing relationship with master coopers from Louisville, Kentucky who reserve only the finest American white oak, custom-charred bourbon casks to mature this unique whiskey.
“The amount of char you give a cask has a significant impact on the flavour and this is what makes Bourbon #3 Char Cask Reserve so special. The seasoned casks are emptied of bourbon and re-charred before being shipped to the Old Bushmills Distillery where we fill them exclusively with triple-distilled Bushmills Single Malt Irish Whiskey. By using a custom char we are able to draw out incredible spicy, honeyed vanilla flavours from deep within the fine grain American white oak. The resulting whiskey has subtle notes of toasted oak, spices and crème brûlée with a long, rich and smooth finish.”
PROXIMO Global Travel Retail Director David Phelan added: “We know shoppers within travel retail seek unique products they cannot get in their domestic markets so Bourbon #3 Char Cask Reserve demonstrates our passion and commitment to meeting this consumer demand. To date, The Steamship Collection has been a firm favourite with travellers and we’re looking forward to the response we get from this exquisite new liquid once it goes on sale in early 2018.”