The Busker small batch single malt lands in UK
Illva Saronno-owned Irish whiskey brand The Busker has brought its small batch single malt to the UK.
The whiskey was made from 100% malted barley and was triple distilled at the brand’s Royal Oak Distillery in Carlow, Ireland.
It was first matured in Bourbon barrels, followed by a final maturation in oloroso Sherry casks. The process is said to give the whiskey both complexity and structure, as well as layered flavours and a distinctive house style.
The whiskey is non-chill filtered and bottled with its natural colour. It shows ‘intense, woody character balanced by subtle sweetness, with nutty undertones and a rich, chocolate-like mouthfeel’.
It has an ABV of 44.3% and is available now on The Whisky Exchange for £50 (US$67).
The release is part of the brand’s Single Collection, which comprises single grain and single pot still whiskeys, all of which are made under one roof at Royal Oak Distillery.
Annie Ingram, prestige trade marketing manager at Disaronno International UK, said: “We’re excited to bring this new offering from The Busker Irish Whiskey to the UK. With its combination of triple distillation, double ageing, non-chill filtration and natural colour, The Busker Small Batch Single Malt arrives with Disaronno International UK as a compelling proposition within the fast-growing premium Irish whiskey category.
“Its flavour profile and Royal Oak Distilleries production credentials position it as an accessible yet sophisticated choice for both whiskey enthusiasts and consumers new to premium Irish single malts.”
Irish whiskey exports fell 5% in 2025, though this was largely due to challenges in the category’s biggest market, the US.
Last year, The Spirits Business visited Royal Oak Distillery, where head blender David Elder shared some of the brand’s upcoming plans and explained how Illva Saronno’s support and infrastructure are setting it up for the future.
Last week, Illva Saronno appointed a global chief commercial officer as it looks to navigate global challenges and manage its growing portfolio. It recently acquired Amaro Averna and Zedda Piras from Campari Group.
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