Bushmills Unveils Rare 26-Year-Old Crystal Malt Whiskey in U.S. Market

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A Historic Release from the World’s Oldest Licensed Whiskey Distillery

Bushmills Irish Whiskey, the world’s oldest licensed whiskey distillery, proudly announces the U.S. release of its Bushmills 26 Year Old Crystal Malt. Following a celebrated debut in the UK and EU, this ultra-premium single malt marks a bold innovation in whiskey-making and a milestone in Bushmills’ 400-year legacy.

Crystal Malt: A Unique Twist on Tradition

Crafted from crystal malt—a barley processed to crystallize sugars during kilning—this whiskey develops a powerful depth of flavor before it ever touches oak. The result is a distillate rich with intense notes of caramel and creamy chocolate, matured for 26 years in first-fill bourbon barrels from Kelvin Cooperage in Kentucky.

Distillation and Maturation Details

  • Casked: November 20, 1997
  • Distillation: Triple distilled
  • ABV: Bottled at 46% to preserve its unique flavor profile
  • Barrel Type: Exclusively first-fill bourbon barrels
  • Color: Radiant golden hue, lighter than typical aged expressions
  • Flavor Profile: Deep, elegant, and creamy

Tasting Notes

  • Nose: Rich caramel, creamy chocolate, soft oak
  • Palate: Velvety texture with layered vanilla, malt sweetness, and subtle spice
  • Finish: Long, warming, and elegantly balanced

Availability and Collectibility

The Bushmills 26 Year Old Crystal Malt is available in limited quantities across select U.S. markets starting this month. This one-of-a-kind release is a testament to Bushmills’ mastery of tradition and innovation — a must-have for collectors and connoisseurs.

Learn More

Visit www.bushmills.com or follow @BushmillsUSA on social media for more information and updates.

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