Bushmills 21 Year Old is a masterpiece of patience, having spent over two decades maturing in a combination of Oloroso sherry and bourbon casks. To truly appreciate the depth of character, it should be treated with the respect it deserves.
Pour a small measure into a tulip-shaped glass, which helps concentrate the complex aromas. Let the liquid breathe for a few minutes before your first sip. This allows the oxygen to open up the layers of dark chocolate and dried fruit that define this exceptional whiskey.
Avoid adding ice, as the cold will mute the delicate nuances of the long maturation process. If you must, a single drop of room-temperature spring water is all that is needed to unlock the hidden floral notes.