Last Updated on: 12th April 2024, 12:56 pm
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 Sexton 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 Sexton: Comparison
Bushmills: Affordable Irish whiskey with a fruity nose and a light, smooth palate. Perfect for cocktails. Short, sweet finish.
Sexton: Unique Irish whiskey with a floral aroma and complex, warm palate. Ideal for those who enjoy a twist. Moderate finish with citrus.
Verdict: Bushmills excels as a versatile mixer, its affordability and smooth profile make it a staple for cocktail enthusiasts. Sexton, with its unique flavors and warmth, caters to those seeking depth and a distinctive taste journey. Both celebrate the richness of Irish whiskey in their own right, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.
Related: Cheap Irish Whiskey Top Selections
Bushmills: A Smooth & Affordable Irish Whiskey for Mixing

- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Cocktails
- Similar to: Powers
Looking for a budget-friendly Irish whiskey perfect for mixing? Bushmills The Original might be your match! Known for its light and approachable flavor, it’s a popular choice for creating refreshing cocktails.
What to expect:
- Pleasant aroma: Bushmills greets you with a fruity scent, reminiscent of apples and a hint of grape.
- Light and clean: On the palate, it feels thin-bodied and delivers a mix of apple juice, toasted cereal, vanilla, and oak flavors.
- Short finish: The experience concludes with a short finish offering a balance of oak spice and a touch of caramel.
Beyond neat:
While Bushmills might not be the most complex sipper, it shines in cocktails. Its smooth profile mixes well with various ingredients, making it a versatile base for crafting delicious drinks. Serving it over ice can further enhance its drinkability.
Bushmills in a nutshell:
- Triple-distilled for smoothness.
- Aged for five years in American oak casks before blending.
- Affordable option, making it a good choice for mixing cocktails.
Bushmills The Original offers a reliable and easy-drinking experience, perfect for creating your favorite cocktails or enjoying on the rocks.
Sexton: A Unique Twist on Irish Whiskey

- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Add water
- Similar to: Jameson
Sexton Single Malt carves its own path in the world of Irish whiskey. Crafted exclusively from malted barley and triple-distilled in copper pots, it delivers a distinctive taste experience.
What to expect:
- Floral aroma: Sexton greets you with a vibrant bouquet of orange, lime, and honey, setting it apart from other Irish whiskeys.
- Light and warm: On the palate, it feels light-bodied but surprisingly warm for its 80-proof strength.
- Unconventional flavors: The initial caramel sweetness gives way to a charred, grassy taste with hints of citrus. This unique combination offers a complex and intriguing profile.
- Lingering warmth: The finish is moderately long, leaving a warming sensation and a malty aftertaste with hints of citrus.
Exploring its potential:
Adding a splash of water can accentuate the caramel notes and reduce the heat, making it smoother.
Sexton in a nutshell:
- Triple-distilled for smoothness, yet surprisingly warm.
- Aged for at least 4 years in ex-oloroso sherry butts, influencing its unique flavor profile.
- Made solely from malted barley for a distinct character.
Sexton is not your typical Irish whiskey. It’s an ideal choice for adventurous palates seeking a distinctive and unconventional taste experience.
Price comparison
Prices are approximate and stated in USD:
| Whiskey | Price |
| Bushmills | $21 |
| Sexton | $27 |
