Bushmills Original is often called White Bush, and this Bushmills Original review is for the people who see it on the shelf and wonder if it’s any good. It’s light, clean and very easy.
Bushmills Original: the basics
It’s a blend of malt and grain whiskey from Bushmills Distillery in County Antrim, matured in ex-bourbon and ex-sherry casks, bottled at 40% with no age statement. The label is white, which is where the nickname comes from.
It’s the entry-level Bushmills, and it’s aimed at easy drinking.
Bushmills Original tasting notes
Honey, green apple and vanilla on the nose, with a little cereal and a hint of fresh pear. It’s light and slightly floral.
On the palate it’s smooth and gentle, with honey, apple, vanilla and a bit of malt. The finish is short and clean, with a little spice. It’s simple, and it’s not trying to be anything else.
The best way to drink Bushmills Original
It’s good in a highball with ginger ale and lime, or in an Irish coffee, or just over ice. Neat it’s fine but a bit thin, and I’d use it for mixing.
How much is Bushmills Original, and is it worth it?
About £21 for 70 cl. That’s a fair price for an easy Irish whiskey, though you can often find the Black Bush for not much more, and I’d buy that instead. Shop prices for Bushmills Original vary, so look at the retailer link on this page rather than trusting my number to the penny.
Alternatives to Bushmills Original
Bushmills Black Bush is the sherried step up, Tullamore D.E.W. Original is a close rival, and Kilbeggan Original is another easy Irish blend.
Who should buy Bushmills Original?
People who want a light, cheap Irish whiskey for mixing, and beginners dipping a toe in.
Verdict: should you buy Bushmills Original?
A light, clean, easy Irish blend that’s fine for mixing and not much beyond. Caskable score: 72 out of 100.
Honey, green apple and vanilla, with a little cereal.
Smooth and gentle, with honey, apple, vanilla and a bit of malt.
Short and clean, with a little spice.
A light, clean, easy Irish blend that is fine for mixing.
Thomas Grønvold is the founder of Caskable and a whisky enthusiast who believes the best way to learn about whisky is simply to drink it, compare it, and stay curious. From supermarket favourites to bottles from distilleries around the world, he writes about what he actually tastes and experiences, without pretending you need to be an expert to enjoy a good dram.
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