400-Year-Old Whiskey Brand: A Cheap, Versatile Pick Experts Recommend, Mashed Reports
An affordable expert pick
Five experts were asked to recommend 11 low-cost whiskey brands. Fujarczuk named Bushmills Original as her choice for people seeking quality without spending a fortune. She praised what she called its “legendary triple-distilled smoothness at an approachable price point,” according to the article. Bushmills has been making whiskey since 1608, and 750-milliliter bottles of Original sell for around $30. The brand also sells higher-priced options, including a 30-year-old single malt that retails for nearly $2,200.
A blend with versatile flavor
Bushmills Original combines single-malt whiskey with a lighter grain variety. The blend is matured in bourbon and sherry casks. It is less peaty than a Scotch single malt, with a fruitier finish and hints of vanilla. The flavor can be enjoyed without ice or a mixer, or paired with club soda, lemonade or ginger ale. For a hot toddy, add hot water, lemon and honey.
How to store the bottle
Keep whiskey bottles upright, unlike wine bottles, which are best stored horizontally. Laying whiskey on its side can damage the cork. Store the bottle in a cool place away from direct sunlight, which can fade the spirit’s color. Unopened whiskey, when stored correctly, can keep until it is ready to be opened.
What changes after opening
After the bottle is opened, oxygen begins to alter the whiskey’s flavor somewhat. A decanter can slow oxidation, though regular drinkers may not notice the difference. The whiskey can still be consumed at the drinker’s pace, with its flavor gradually affected after opening.
Key points
- Andrea Fujarczuk recommends Bushmills Original as an affordable whiskey with quality flavor.
- Bushmills has made whiskey since 1608; its Original blend costs around $30 per 750-milliliter bottle.
- The blend offers fruit and vanilla notes and works neat, with mixers or in a hot toddy.
- Store whiskey upright in a cool place away from direct sunlight.