Bushmills reinforces commitment to premiumisation with 46 Year Old Irish whiskey launch

Bushmills Irish Whiskey has unveiled its oldest-ever expression, 46 Year Old Secrets Of The River Bush, with only 300 numbered bottles available globally.

The single malt (46.3% ABV) celebrates the River Bush and its path over beds of black basalt rock, synonymous with the Giant’s Causeway. This water has been flowing through the heart of Bushmills village in County Antrim, Northern Ireland since the whiskey’s story began in 1608.

The 46 Year Old, priced at US$12,500, matured for almost half a century in oloroso sherry butts from the Antonio Páez Lobato Cooperage in Jerez, Spain, imbuing the liquid with a mahogany hue.

Bushmills Master Blender Alex Thomas said, “This isn’t just a smooth, rare single malt whiskey – it is real history in the making.

“For 46 years, we’ve patiently watched over this remarkable liquid and witnessed it transform into this rich, dark beauty. This is Bushmills at its best.”

On the nose, the expression combines apricot, caramel and warm oak, followed by a medley of cinnamon, crushed clove and nutmeg. This develops into sweet black cherries and apricots, giving way to roasted coffee, oak and warm toffee notes.

Thomas added: “This stunning whiskey just shows you what time can do. For nearly half a century it has gradually breathed in the wood and matured slowly.

“It is rich and authentic, and full of flavour straight from the cask – creating a bold unprecedented experience for the whiskey connoisseur.”

Bushmills 46 Year Old Secrets of The River Bush is housed in a handcrafted hexagonal presentation box. Intricate details on the walnut case pay tribute to the River Bush, Bushmills village and its surrounding landscape.

The gold engraving along the centre of the box reflects the River Bush’s journey to the Old Bushmills Distillery.