Bushmills Unveils 46-Year-Old Single Malt – The Oldest Irish Whiskey Ever Released

Bushmills Distillery has introduced its oldest single malt to date, the 46-Year-Old ‘Secrets of the River Bush’, marking a new chapter in ultra-prestige Irish whiskey. With just 300 bottles available globally, this limited release represents over four decades of maturation under the care of two generations of whiskey makers.

Aged in Oloroso sherry butts sourced from the Antonio Paez Lobato Cooperage in Jerez, Spain, this whiskey is deeply tied to its origins. The name pays tribute to the River Bush, which has flowed through the distillery since its establishment in 1608, shaping the character of Bushmills whiskey for over 415 years.

Bushmills’ master blender Alex Thomas

Master Blender Alex Thomas describes this release as “real history in the making.” On the nose, expect ripe dark fruits, sweet apricot, caramel, and warm oak. The palate delivers a spicy medley of cinnamon, crushed clove, and nutmeg, followed by sweet black cherries, apricots, roasted coffee, oak, and warm toffee. The finish is both smooth and robust, with lingering spiced fruit.

Bushmills 46-Year-Old Secrets of The River Bush

Presented in a handcrafted walnut case with a hexagonal design, the packaging mirrors the landscape of Bushmills village, with gold engraving representing the River Bush’s journey to the distillery.

Bushmills 46-Year-Old ‘Secrets of The River Bush’ is bottled at 46.3% ABV, with a recommended retail price of $12,500 / £9,850 / €11,500.