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Taste the Distinction of Time and Tradition at Bushmills Distillery, Ireland

Published by Jason Hussong, Writer

Country: United Kingdom

The Experience

During the American Revolution, whiskey was used as a form of currency. But it wasn't until the maiden voyage of the S.S. Bushmills in 1890 that the famous Bushmills brand made its debut in the United States from the shores of Ireland. As the oldest licensed whiskey distillery in the world, the Old Bushmills Distillery has been in operation for more than 400 years, and has built a solid reputation for producing high quality Irish whiskey. As such, in Northern Ireland's Country Antrim, the Bushmills Distillery tour attracts more than 100,000 visitors annually, who come to savour the smooth whiskey and glimpse into the secrets of traditional distilling.

The Old Bushmills Distillery was officially licensed by English King James I in 1608. Many believe, despite a lack of evidence, that the troops of King Henry II may have even enjoyed its flavours 400 years earlier. These very same soldiers may also be responsible for first pronouncing the word "whiskey." They struggled with the native Irish words of "uisce beatha," which means "water of life," and Anglicized it to the word of "whiskey." The "e" was added around 1870 by Irish and American distillers in an attempt to differentiate themselves from the Scottish, who were gaining a reputation for poor quality. The quality of Bushmills whiskey isn't one to question though.

There are a few retired Bushmills whiskey brands, but five distinct whiskies are still being produced by the Distillery: The original whiskey, the Black Bush, and the 10, 16 and 21 year issues, all with varying tastes. The Bushmills Distillery tour details the difference in each of these whiskies and explains how they're matured and produced from the corn fields, through traditional still pots, to glass in hand. It's even possible to watch the whiskey being made. But, without a doubt, the best part of the Old Bushmills Distillery experience is the sampling at the end of the tour. A taste-testing opportunity is also possible if you're lucky enough to be selected, so make sure to pay attention during the tour and volunteer when the time is right. A stop in the gift shop after the tour is also a great part of the experience as special issue whiskey, which can only be purchased at the Distillery, is sometimes available (and possible to personalize with the visitor's name).

In May of 2008, around the 400th anniversary of the licensing of the Distillery, the Bank of Ireland applauded the superior quality of the Bushmills Irish whiskey. The distilling process that was brought home from missionaries around the 6th Century, and was celebrated in an interesting way as the bank issued notes in Northern Ireland with the Old Bushmills Distillery on one side. The new image replaced the one of the Queen's University of Belfast, which was used since 1929. So while Irish whiskey isn't necessarily used as direct currency still today, it is now possible to purchase it with the new pounds sterling that are legal tender in the United Kingdom.

Photos

Map

Puzzle

When to Go to Bushmills Distillery

The best time to visit Bushmills Distillery is during the summer, as winter in Northern Ireland tends to be rainy, cold and windy. Another close attraction is the Giant's Causeway, spanning over 15 miles, which allows visitors to climb out over columns of sprawling basalt rock out to the sea.

Odds n' Ends

Signs are posted at the entrance to each county in Ireland to report the number of people who have died in accidents on the roads. The Irish take their drink driving laws very seriously, so make sure to plan appropriate transportation ahead of time and ensure you have a safe and enjoyable experience. A designated driver is a good idea, but an even better one is to enjoy the Ulster bed and breakfast experience in Northern Ireland and spend a few days seeing the sites around the area: the Giant's Causeway, Dunluce Castle, and the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge are all great experiences in the area.

Bushmills Distillery tours costs about £6, and runs most days of the week, but actual production only takes from Monday to Friday. If you visit Friday afternoon, Saturday or Sunday admission is reduced when production is not underway. Children under 8 are allowed on the premise, but not on the tour.

More Experiences Nearby

Explore the Mystical Giant's Causeway
Once upon a time, there was a great Irish war hero named Finn McCool. Finn was a huge man - a giant revered by all who looked upon him, the fiercest warrior in Ireland. Finn's arch rival was a Scottish giant called Bendandonner. Upon setting out to greet his foe in battle, Finn realized that there was no way for him to reach Scotland, as no boat was sturdy enough to carry him the long journey across the sea. At that, Finn built Giant's Causeway out of rock and stone, creating a lengthy bridge that spanned all the way to ...4 miles away.

Carpe Diem! Book to do this experience now!

Watch whiskey making take place and enjoy a wee taster too as we unlock the secrets of 400 years of distilling at the home of Irish whiskey.
Starting from $11.00 per person.
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Books and DVDs

99 Drams of Whiskey: The Accidental Hedonist's Quest for the Perfect Shot and the History of the Drink
The Whiskeys of Ireland
Ireland Country Guide Lonely Planet

Elsewhere on the Web

Bushmills Distillery - Bushmills.com

Media References

Bushmills Distillery - chwisgi.com (blog)
Introduction to Northern Ireland - NYTimes.com (newspaper)
Whiskey Manners - PortlandMonthlyMag.com (blog)

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