BUS Single Malt: A Dutch Whisky Worth Discovering

Nestled in the rolling countryside of The Netherlands, BUS Single Malt is capturing attention with its bold ambitions and promising quality. Crafted at De Heische Hoeve farm-distillery, BUS isn’t just about whisky — it’s a full experience: a working farm, wedding venue, hotel, and tasting center all rolled into one. But behind the charm lies a spirited attempt to bottle something truly unique.

Origins & Philosophy

Originally a pig farm, the estate diversified into barley cultivation. As their grain output grew, they eyed distillation as a natural extension. Until recently, their spirits operations were limited to beer and schnapps. But in 2024, they finally installed a pot still — a defining moment in their evolution. The first expressions are young, minimalist, and earnest.

In many ways, BUS is more agriculture than distillery — the whisky program is a complement to lodging, tourism, and events. The vision is one of sustainability and vertical integration: from field to glass. But does the liquid live up to the ambition?

Tasting Notes

journey of BUS Single Malt (47%, c. 2024, 50 cl):

• Nose: Aromas open gently — crisp apple and lemon candy, a hint of mint leaves, and soft dried grass. After a while, a delicate mineral and wet cardboard nuance sneaks in.
• Palate: The taste is light-bodied. Vanilla sweetness leads, balanced by a subtle alcoholic edge and faint resinous character. Green pepper, woody hints, and an echo of that cardboard note emerge.
• Finish: Short, clean, neutral. It doesn’t linger — but in youth, that’s not unexpected.

Overall, this is a whisky with introspection more than bold statements. It’s a baby stage, a rough diamond waiting to be polished.

Strengths & Challenges

• Strengths
  • The sustainability ethos and farm-based narrative give BUS a compelling story in a crowded market.
  • The whisky shows clean youthful character — fruity, green, and fairly honest for its age.
  • It is distinctive as a Dutch single malt, contributing to the growing “world whisky” genre.
• Challenges
  • Youth shows: the spirit lacks depth, complexity, and length.
  • The cardboard/mineral note can feel distracting at times.
  • As one new distillery among many, distinguishing oneself will require bold future releases and aging.

In the review’s own words: “like many a new distillery … they are overestimating the quality … give them a couple of years to figure out BUS 2.0.”

That said, the potential is real — especially if they allow their spirit to mature, experiment with cask finishes, and refine their process.

The Future of BUS

In the coming years, BUS should:

• Expand cask aging programs to deepen flavor and character (e.g. 5-10 year age statements)
• Explore finish styles (e.g. sherry, port, wine casks) to add dimension
• Highlight terroir and grain stories — Dutch barley, local fermentation, farm-to-bottle narrative
• Market internationally to whisky enthusiasts seeking new and unusual expressions

If BUS continues evolving at this pace, it could become a name serious whisky lovers keep an eye on.

FAQs about BUS Single Malt & Dutch Whisky

Q1: Is BUS Single Malt good for beginners?
A1: Absolutely. Its light fruitiness and approachable style make it a decent entry point to world whiskies. Avoid expecting deep complexity, but enjoy its youthful charm.

Q2: How long is BUS Single Malt aged?
A2: The initial expressions are around 3 years old, making it a young single malt.

Q3: Where can one buy BUS Single Malt?
A3: It is available via select retailers such as Whiskysite.nl.

Q4: What makes Dutch single malt whisky special?
A4: Dutch single malts are rare. Producers like BUS often combine sustainable farming, small-batch production, and regional identity in a way that sets them apart from traditional whisky nations.

Q5: Does BUS release cask strength or independent bottlings?
A5: At present, the standard expression is moderate strength. However, as the distillery matures, independent casks or special editions may emerge.