Bushmills, the world’s oldest licensed whiskey distillery, has announced the release of its longest-aged single malt to date: Secrets of the River Bush 46-Year-Old Irish Whiskey. Set to launch in March 2025, this exceptional whiskey was distilled in 1978 and matured for 46 years in two oloroso sherry butts, making it a remarkable addition to the Bushmills legacy.
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Key Takeaways
Bushmills is releasing Secrets of the River Bush 46-Year-Old Irish Whiskey in March 2025.
Distilled in 1978, matured in two oloroso sherry butts, creating rich dried fruit flavors.
Only 300 bottles available worldwide, with 100 allocated to the U.S.
It is priced at $12,500 per bottle and is among the rarest Irish single malts.
Joins other ultra-aged luxury whiskeys from Midleton, Macallan, Dalmore, and Glenfiddich.
A Whiskey Nearly Five Decades in the Making
This limited-edition release highlights Bushmills’ dedication to craftsmanship and time-honored maturation techniques. The whiskey’s long aging process in oloroso sherry butts has imparted deep, luxurious flavors, including rich dried fruits, dark chocolate, and warm spices, creating a decadent drinking experience.
Mash Bill: 100% malted barley
Aging: 46 years in two oloroso sherry butts
Proof: 92 proof (46% ABV)
Price: $12,500 per bottle
Availability: 300 bottles worldwide, 100 allocated to the U.S.
Nose: Dried figs, raisins, toasted nuts, and oak spice
Palate: Rich dried fruits, dark chocolate, warm spices, and subtle nuttiness
Finish: Long and lingering with hints of sherry sweetness and gentle oak influence
With only 300 bottles available worldwide, this exclusive expression is a true collector’s item. Of these, 100 bottles will be allocated to the U.S. market, making it an incredibly rare opportunity for American whiskey connoisseurs.
Image credit: Bushmills Instagram
The Influence of Oloroso Sherry Butts
The choice of oloroso sherry butts plays a crucial role in the flavor profile of this whiskey. These Spanish oak casks, which previously held oloroso sherry, contribute intense richness, depth, and complexity to the spirit. Expect notes of dried figs, raisins, toasted nuts, and a subtle hint of oak spice, layered with the signature smoothness of Bushmills’ triple-distilled Irish single malt.
Rarity and Pricing
The exclusivity of Secrets of the River Bush is reflected in its price tag of $12,500 per bottle. As one of the rarest and oldest Irish single malts ever released, it is expected to attract serious collectors and luxury whiskey enthusiasts. Each bottle will be presented in an elegant handcrafted display case, reinforcing its prestige and rarity.
How It Compares to Other Luxury-Aged Whiskeys
Bushmills’ latest release joins the ranks of ultra-aged, highly exclusive whiskeys from other renowned distilleries. Similar aged expressions include:
Midleton Very Rare Silent Distillery Chapter 4 (48 Years Old, 2024 Release) – One of the oldest Irish whiskeys ever released, featuring a rich oak and spice profile.
The Macallan 50-Year-Old (2023 Release) – A half-century-aged Scotch whisky with deep sherry influence and exceptional balance.
Dalmore 45-Year-Old (2022 Release) – A Highland single malt finished in rare vintage port casks, adding layers of complexity.
Glenfiddich 50-Year-Old (2023 Release) – A Speyside classic with remarkable depth and elegance.
Bushmills’ Secrets of the River Bush offers a distinctive take on long-aged whiskey with its exclusive oloroso sherry butt maturation, setting it apart in the ultra-premium whiskey category.
What’s Next for Bushmills?
Following the success of Bushmills’ Causeway Collection and other high-end releases, the distillery is expected to continue exploring exceptional cask finishes and long-aged expressions. The Secrets of the River Bush 46-Year-Old is a testament to Bushmills’ ongoing commitment to innovation while preserving its rich heritage.
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