In today's instalment of our Q&A series, we're having a dram with Alex Thomas.

 

Alex is the master blender for Irish whiskey makers Bushmills and the Sexton. Having begun her career more than two decades ago, she now takes charge of selection and management of the casks at the Old Bushmills Distillery, nurturing of the brands' portfolios, and new product development.

 

Alex shares her favourite moments from her career, how she discovers new drams, and what a perfect Sunday looks like for her.

 

How long have you been working in the whisky industry?

I've been in the industry for more than 20 years now, and I’m still just as captivated by the craft as I was on day one. From maturation to blending, every stage of whiskey-making is a labour of love, and that passion has kept me hooked for two decades. I genuinely couldn’t see myself doing anything else. If I wasn’t a master blender, I have no doubt I’d still be working with barrels in some way — maybe at a winery in France or a Tequila distillery in Jalisco.

 

Where did the journey of your career start and where has it taken you over the years? Do you have a favourite memory from along the way?

I joined the Bushmills Irish Whiskey team in 2004, and I've been honing my craft ever since. From the start, I developed a passion for experimentation and trial with different flavour extensions, and once I earned my distilling diploma in 2012, I was given the freedom to pursue this passion. After meticulously sourcing the finest sherry casks and guided by experimentation and intuition, the Sexton Single Malt Irish Whiskey was brought to life.

 

In 2021, I was honoured to be appointed master blender for both Bushmills and the Sexton. It was a privilege, not only for a heritage brand like Bushmills, with over 400 years of history, but also for a new, exciting brand like the Sexton. Watching the Sexton family grow, especially with the launch of our 11 Year Old Single Malt Global Travel Retail Exclusive earlier this year and the fantastic response it’s received, has been a real pinch-me moment.

 

The whiskey industry has always been incredibly welcoming, and I’ve been fortunate to learn from people who generously shared their time and knowledge. I owe so much to those who are dedicated to shaping the next generation of custodians, and I’m grateful every day to be part of this craft.

 

What is the most exciting change you’ve witnessed in the whisky industry over the course of your career?

The most exciting change I’ve witnessed is the evolution in how people consume whiskey. There’s no longer a “right” way to enjoy it — it’s all about discovering what works for you. Cocktails, in particular, have been pivotal in broadening whiskey’s appeal, challenging the traditional belief that it must be drunk neat. With the Sexton, we continue to push these boundaries and defy the conventional norms expected of a single malt.

 

I meet people all the time who say they’re not whiskey drinkers, but once they try it in a way that suits their palate, they’re converted. Even after all these years, seeing that moment of discovery never gets old!

 

Name a whisky distillery or brand that you feel is underrated.

Not to sound biased, but I’d have to say the Sexton. As a newer brand, it can be tough to get people to step outside their comfort zone and try something different. But when the Sexton launched, it quickly became a success because we encouraged people to be guided by intuition, trust their senses, and experiment to enjoy it their way.

 

Whether neat, on the rocks, or in a cocktail, people discovered its versatility and started sharing that experience with friends. That kind of organic word-of-mouth excitement is what makes the Sexton so special.

 

Is there a whisky or brand you are particularly enjoying at the moment?

I wouldn’t say there’s one particular brand or expression — I’m always open to trying something new. My favourite way to do that is by ordering a glass of something different at a bar rather than committing to a full bottle. It’s a great way to explore whiskeys I might not normally go for, and sometimes you stumble across something really special.

 

When you’re not drinking whisky, what is your drink of choice?

I’m a big fan of gin, but if I had to pick one drink, it’d definitely be wine. I love exploring different cask profiles and seeing what works well with whiskey. It’s all about finding inspiration for new innovations, and sometimes a glass of wine sparks that next idea.

 

Would you rather read a book or watch a film? For whichever option you choose (book or film), tell us one of your favourites.

I’d definitely rather watch a film. One of my favourites is While You Were Sleeping. I love the romance of it, and the idea that love can be blind. It actually reminds me a bit of getting to know a whiskey, especially the Sexton. The bottle is intentionally opaque so you can’t see the liquid before you try it, encouraging you to taste without any preconceptions, trust your senses, and really immerse yourself in the flavour.

 

Describe your perfect Sunday.

My perfect Sunday would be spent on the beach with my dogs and husband, coffee in hand, just taking in the view of the sea. On colder days, you’ll find me by the fire, whiskey in hand, enjoying the warmth and relaxation.

 

Describe your dream holiday — where would you go and what would you do there?

I’m definitely a homebird, so my dream holiday is anywhere my family can be. I love exploring Ireland; there’s so much to discover, and the island is full of hidden gems. One of my favourite things to do is find an old bar that hasn’t changed in years, but still holds so much history and character.