Bowmore & Aston Martin unveil Bowmore ARC-54

Bowmore^® and Aston Martin have unveiled the second and final release in their groundbreaking ARC Series, Bowmore ARC-54.  A pinnacle in the story of the partnership, this striking creation unites a truly rare 54-year-old whisky from Bowmore distillery with a remarkable handblown decanter inspired by the cutting-edge design of the ultimate hypercar, Aston Martin Valkyrie.

Distilled in November 1968, this rare and remarkable spirit pays homage to the fact that single malt excels with time in cask, aging like no other to capture the definitive multi-dimensional character of Bowmore. After 54 years spent in a 2nd Fill European Oak Sherry Butt and 3rd Fill American Oak Hogshead within the hallowed walls of the No.1 Vaults.  Inspired by the Golden Ratio with 61.8% European Oak aged spirit and 38.2% American Oak aged spirit, the two parts are united for 15 months. The resulting whisky encapsulates infinite layers of flavour to captivate every sense, fully immersing the drinker in every drop.

Each handblown decanter takes inspiration from the F1-inspired aerodynamic exterior of the Aston Martin Valkyrie hypercar, including the full-length venturi tunnels that contribute to in the region of 1,100 kg of downforce, and the natural fluid forms of the terroir of Islay. Emanating from the design direction and principles of an Aston Martin, Bowmore ARC-54 is sculpted with precision, creating a striking sense of flow in its lines and styling.  The shape is defined by these fluid aerodynamics and showcase the shared philosophy through the diffuser inspired glass sculpture to enhance the flowing reflections of the whisky within.

Speaking on the new Bowmore ARC-54 release, Dr Calum Fraser, Bowmore Chief Blender said: “A Bowmore as exquisite and complex as this 54-year-old is testament to the skills of our distillery team, but also the very embodiment of what can be achieved simply by slowing down, standing still and letting things unfold as they are destined to. This rare creation truly demonstrates just how Bowmore ages exceptionally over time, with unmatched precision and clarity. As guardians of this spirit, we strive to harness the power of the past in every drop that we create – whilst constantly reimagining Bowmore for the next generation that will experience our whiskies.”

Marek Reichman, Aston Martin Executive Vice President and Chief Creative Officer comments: “Bowmore ARC-54 continues the cutting edge, technology-based collaboration between two exceptional brands that are steeped in heritage and tradition. It embodies the innovative thinking that we apply to Valkyrie and Valhalla, our mid-engined sports cars.  Both of these cars push the boundaries ARC-54 decanter, similar principles of materiality and fluid dynamics are employed, replacing air flow for liquid movement to create a uniquely formed shape generated by the pure movement of Bowmore whisky. A truly creative collaboration.”

Limited to 130 decanters globally, Bowmore ARC-54 is a multi-dimensional drinking experience. Zesty citric tones and delicate floral notes flow together with salty caramel sweetness, spiced ginger and cinnamon – with a signature whisper of peat smoke. Housed in an individually handmade decanter that epitomises the two brands’ shared mindset when it comes to craftmanship, the design takes inspiration from both the flow of air underneath the iconic Aston Martin Valkyrie through the sculptured venturi tunnels and the natural fluid forms of the landscapes and terroir of Islay. 

Bowmore ARC-54 will be available from selected stockists worldwide as of April 3^rd 2025.

Price available on request.