Last Updated on: 9th April 2024, 02:05 am
J Highland
J Highland is a certified sommelier with 30 years in the liquor industry, owning a pub, a liquor store, and moonlighting as a spirits distiller.
Discover the differences between Bushmills vs Proper 12 in this head-to-head comparison and decide which Irish Whiskey is better for You!
Quick Note: Running a pub and liquor store provides me ample access to various spirits, in addition, I moonlight as a spirits distiller. I assess them using customer feedback, expert opinions and online research.
Written by: J Highland
Bushmills vs Proper 12: Comparison
Bushmills Original: A simple, apple-forward Irish whiskey ideal for cocktails or casual sipping with friends. It’s light, with a hint of toasted cereal and vanilla, ending on a short, slightly sweet note.
Proper No. Twelve: Offers a vanilla and caramel aroma, leading into ripe fruit and caramel on the palate, with a smooth finish of orange and oak. It’s an easygoing choice, especially for newcomers.
Verdict: Bushmills Original and Proper No. Twelve both provide accessible and enjoyable experiences for different occasions. Bushmills suits those who prefer light, fruity notes, while Proper No. Twelve caters to fans of smooth, vanilla-infused whiskey, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.
Related: Affordable Irish Whiskey List
Bushmills Original: No-Frills Apple Charm, Best With Ice or Friends
- Nose: Apple, grape, alcohol
- Palate: Apple, toasted cereal, sugar, vanilla, oak
- Finish: Short, oak spice, caramel
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Cocktails
- Similar to: Powers
Clean & Fruity Aroma: Bushmills Original opens with a gentle and clean aroma. Sweet apple takes center stage, followed by a subtle hint of grape. The alcohol presence is mild and well-integrated.
Light Body & Apple-Centric Palate: The taste is lighter than some richer whiskies, but that doesn’t mean it’s lacking. Think of it as a refreshing option. Sweet apple juice is the main flavor, reminiscent of childhood memories. Hints of toasted cereal, sugar, vanilla, and oak add a touch of complexity without overpowering the apple theme.
Quick Finish: The finish is short, leaving a touch of oak spice bitterness. Thankfully, a hint of charred caramel adds a touch of sweetness that lingers pleasantly.
A Straightforward & Affordable Option: Bushmills Original doesn’t boast groundbreaking flavors, but it delivers a decent whiskey experience at an attractive price point. There are no major flaws, just a simple and reliable dram.
Think “Comfy Jeans” for Whiskey: Imagine a comfortable pair of jeans – familiar and reliable, but maybe not the most exciting choice for a fancy occasion. Bushmills Original offers a similar easygoing experience.
Sipping or Cocktails: While neat sipping might not be its forte, Bushmills Original shines in cocktails!
- Add Ice: Chilled Bushmills Original with ice can tame the oak spice and enhance the sweetness, making it even easier to drink.
- Mix it Up: The neutral apple character makes it a versatile base for various cocktails, allowing you to create affordable and delicious mixed drinks.
Simple Yet Satisfying: Bushmills Original might not be complex, but it offers an honest and affordable whiskey experience with a charming apple-forward taste. It’s a great choice for those who enjoy a simple drink or are looking for a budget-friendly mixer.
Sometimes Simple Works: Bushmills Original reminds us that a straightforward whiskey can be satisfying, especially when enjoyed with friends or for casual sipping.
Bushmills Original in Short:
- An affordable and easy-drinking Irish whiskey with a distinct apple character.
- Light-bodied and perfect for casual sipping or mixing in cocktails.
- A great choice for budget-conscious whiskey drinkers or those who enjoy a simple and refreshing dram.
Proper No. Twelve: Smooth and Easygoing Irish Whiskey for Everyone
- Nose: Caramel, floral, vanilla
- Palate: Ripe fruit, caramel, oak spice
- Finish: Orange, caramel, oak
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Rocks
- Similar to: Slane
Inviting Vanilla Aroma: Proper No. Twelve opens with a strong scent of vanilla sweetness, like fresh-baked cookies. Hints of caramel and a touch of floral character add a touch of intrigue, keeping it interesting without being complex.
Light Body & Fruity Palate: While lighter than some richer whiskies, the taste offers a pleasant surprise. Ripe fruit flavors reminiscent of summer orchards lead the way, followed by smooth caramel and a gentle peppery tingle. It’s mild and easy on the palate.
Pleasant Finish: The finish lingers with a delightful mix of orange, caramel, and a subtle hint of oak. It leaves a comfortable warmth without any harshness.
Great for Beginners: For those new to whiskey, Proper No. Twelve offers a smooth and approachable introduction. Its easy-drinking nature makes it a safe choice without overwhelming flavors or a burning sensation.
Simpler Profile for Experienced Drinkers: Seasoned whiskey enthusiasts might find it a bit simple compared to more complex options. However, its smoothness can be appreciated for casual sipping when you just want a relaxing drink.
Versatile for Cocktails: The smooth and mild profile makes Proper No. Twelve a great base for various mixed drinks.
A Celebrity Endorsement with Merit: While celebrity involvement can influence some, Proper No. Twelve goes beyond the endorsement. It delivers on its promise of smooth and approachable whiskey.
The Choice is Yours: Ultimately, Proper No. Twelve is a decent and smooth Irish whiskey with a celebrity association. Whether it becomes your go-to drink or a casual sipper depends on your preference.
Proper No. Twelve in Short:
- A smooth and easy-drinking Irish whiskey with a focus on approachability.
- Offers a pleasant aroma of vanilla and caramel with hints of fruit and spice on the palate.
- A great choice for beginners or those who enjoy a mild and easygoing whiskey experience.
- Can also be a versatile base for cocktails due to its smooth profile.
What do they have in common?
Both of these whiskies are crafted at the historic Bushmills Distillery, situated near Belfast in Northern Ireland.
This distillery holds a remarkable legacy, having been in continuous operation since 1608.
Presently, it is under the ownership of Jose Cuervo, the renowned Mexican distiller and the largest producer of Tequila worldwide.
Are Bushmills and Proper 12 the same whiskey?
Despite being crafted using the same mash, these whiskies undergo distinct barrel management techniques, resulting in contrasting flavor profiles that set them apart.
Price comparison
Prices are approximate and stated in USD:
| Whiskey | Price |
| Bushmills The Original | $27 |
| Proper 12 | $30 |