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Bushmills make history with its oldest Irish whiskey release to date

The 44 year-old single malt release will be limited to just 40 bottles priced at $12,000

Bushmills master blender, Alex Thomas, eyes up the distillery's oldest expression to date.
Bushmills master blender, Alex Thomas, eyes up the distillery's oldest expression to date.

BUSHMILLS has made history by releasing its oldest and most expensive whiskey expression to date.

The 44 year-old single malt Irish whiskey has been created exclusively for Dubai Duty Free in celebration of its 40th anniversary.

Just 40 bottles will be available exclusively for purchase from Dubai Duty Free from December 11, priced at $12,000 (£8,744) for 700ml.

Distilled in 1978, the spirit has been aged solely in Oloroso sherry casks and bottled at 48% ABV. 

The distillery’s master blender, Alex Thomas, described the 44-year-old release as “exquisite and rare”.

Commenting on the sherry casks, crafted by Antonio Paez Lobato Cooperage, she said: “The craftmanship and quality of the casks from Antonio Paez Lobato Cooperage, and the dedication to perfection of Bushmills spirit, have stood the test of time in the maturation of this outstanding single malt through over four decades resulting in an outstanding union of oak, sherry and spirit to create a once in a lifetime delight for the senses.

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“As the cask breathes in and out, the spirit draws out the wonderful mild oak notes, the seasoning and tannins of the wood, gradually taking on its colour and flavour rich with the Oloroso sherry previously stored in the cask” 

Dubai Duty Free was set up 40 years ago by Galway native Colm McLoughlin.

The Irish businessman remains its executive vice chairman and CEO.

"We are delighted that Bushmills has chosen to be a part of our 40th anniversary celebration with the exclusive release of Bushmills 44-year-old single malt whiskey, with only 40 bottles made available in Dubai Duty Free,” he said.

“This is a testament to the strong partnership we share with Proximo in bringing unique and exceptional-quality products that are both exclusive and limited-edition to our customers.”