Bushmills Releases the 46-Year-Old Secrets of the River Bush Whiskey
Bushmills Distillery, recognized as the world’s oldest licensed whiskey distillery, has made headlines with the introduction of its latest offering: the 46-year-old Secrets of the River Bush. This extraordinary Irish single malt whiskey is the result of a meticulous blend derived from two barrels that were distilled back in 1978, a year marked by significant challenges for the Irish whiskey sector.
A Turbulent Backdrop for Distillation
When this whiskey was produced, the Irish whiskey industry was grappling with the aftereffects of Prohibition, which had led to the closure of numerous distilleries. During this tumultuous period, Bushmills stood resilient, as one of only two distilleries continuing whiskey production in Ireland. While pot still whiskey was prevalent, Bushmills remained committed to crafting premium single malts, thereby setting the stage for future innovations.
Legacy of Perfection
“They continued to lay the liquid down knowing that someday someone would want to drink it,” remarked Alex Thomas, the current master blender at Bushmills. “The reason Bushmills is still here after 400 years is their dedication to perfection.” Thomas emphasizes her responsibility as a steward for the whiskey crafted by previous generations, which has guided her focus on two exceptional barrels for over two decades.
The Barrel Aging Process
The selected barrels, which aged side by side in the distillery’s oldest warehouse, shared a similar environment, contributing to a unique and cohesive flavor profile. Despite the cool, consistent temperatures of Northern Ireland, the aging process over 46 years is exceptional, as many older whiskeys become excessively oaky or lose volume due to evaporation.
Thomas attributes the quality of the Secrets of the River Bush to the superior craftsmanship of European oak casks. Throughout its maturation since 1978, this single malt has exclusively aged in Oloroso sherry casks sourced from the Antonio Paez Lobato Cooperage in Jerez, Spain, enhancing its character.
The Tasting Experience
Initial Observations
Upon closer inspection, it’s evident that this whiskey is anything but ordinary. The color, a deep mahogany, resembles that of lightly roasted coffee. The aromatic bouquet teases the senses, presenting notes of dried fruits like raisin and fig, complemented by roasted crème brûlée and maple syrup, with an overall emphasis on fruit and oak.
Flavor Profile
Tasting the whiskey reveals that the initial dried fruit notes are accompanied by layers of black cherry and apricot, alongside a hint of baking spice and nuttiness that balances the inherent sweetness. The aging process is evident through the presence of richer, tannic flavors reminiscent of pipe tobacco, leather, and dark chocolate, leading to a harmonious and opulent flavor profile.
The influence of the sherry casks is palpable, imparting a slight dryness that is most noticeable in the finish. Flavors of dried fruit, cherry, and oak linger, creating a fulfilling and sweet conclusion to the tasting experience.
Conclusion on Bushmills 46
Bushmills 46, branded as Secrets of the River Bush, leaves a lasting impression. Packaged in a handcrafted hexagonal wooden box adorned with a topographical map of the River Bush, the whiskey is a prized collector’s item, with only 300 bottles produced, each carrying a suggested retail price of $12,500.
This whiskey cannot be replicated, adding to its allure and making it ideal for serious collectors. For those fortunate enough to find it offered at a bar, it’s certainly an occasion worth seizing. Its uniqueness is matched only by its rich historical narrative.
