The Sexton is the result of the unique vision and creativity of Alex Thomas, Master Blender of The Old Bushmills Distillery in Northern Ireland. Made from 100% Irish malted barley that is triple distilled in copper pot stills then aged exclusively in hand-selected ex-Oloroso sherry butts creating an unusual style of Irish whiskey. It is designed for a whiskey drinker who looks for a multi-tasking malt that’s as enjoyable in a cocktail as it is neat or on the rocks.
The hexagonal shape of The Sexton Single Malt bottle is a reference to the stones of the Giant’s Causeway, which lies to the north of The Bushmills Distillery and is the birth place of The Sexton. Bottled at 40% ABV this bottle is readily available for around £35 through drinks specialist retailers and grocery stores.
The European oak casks are air-dried for 16 months, toasted from the inside to a medium-high level and seasoned with Oloroso Sherry for two years. First, second and third fill Oloroso sherry casks are used to achieve a balance between sweet sherry flavours and toasted oak notes. The Sexton is a non-age statement whiskey, which allows Thomas the freedom to select casks of differing ages to create the profile just as she wants it.
It’s fantastic to bring The Sexton Single Malt Irish Whiskey to the United Kingdom during such an exciting time for the category. After years of experimenting with different cask profiles and laying the liquid to rest for just the right amount of time, I’m pleased to share a rich and deeply flavourful Irish single malt that is ideal for mixing in cocktails. In doing things differently, we want to celebrate those who are also forging their own path and leaving their mark on the world.
Alex Thomas – Master Blender, Bushmills Distillery
Our Tasting Notes
The colour is coppery gold and the nose is sweet, rich and aromatic. There is a real fresh fruit juicy feel up front – think of guava and cloudy apple. This is followed by sherry-soaked prunes, raisins and some walnuts and cashew nut. A distinct maltiness underpins everything, along with a tiny hint of bitter orange and sweet red wine. A final hint of sweet earthy liquorice adds depth.
On the palate this whiskey is big and bold, but soft and velvety. Notes of toffee and butterscotch lead from the front and are quickly supported by some sweet fruitiness – think of cherry jam, orange juice and chocolate coated plump raisins. There is a cardomon-like spice that evolves, plus further fruitiness in the form of prunes in brandy.
The whiskey is fruity up front, then bittersweet malty and finally exhibits drying woody spice and a hint of bitter orange. The maltiness has a biscuity, and almost chocolatey, feel and the spices become a little peppery with hints of clove and lquorice again. A hint of bittersweet toasted walnut also makes a late appearance.
The finish is of good length with the woody and warming spices drawing it out. The sweet and fruity elements fade slowly away leaving the spices and robust maltiness to play with each other. It makes you want to reach for a second glass.
What’s The Verdict?
The Sextin Single Malt is quite un-Irish-like in its profile. This is not meant to be rude or negative. Quite the opposite. It shows an expressiveness and different direction to many other Irish whiskeys on the market, and a contemporary way of creating a whiskey for the modern whiskey drinker. It has the softness and rounded lusciousness found in most Irish whiskeys, but with extra depth and complexity implanted by the time in those ex-Oloroso sherry butts. Definitely worth a try – you get plenty of whiskey for your money.
Below is a video review of Sexton Single Malt Irish Whiskey from our Allotment Dram series. To watch other such videos or subscribe to our YouTube channel – click here.
