I’ve been lucky. Through my work sampling and writing about spirits, I’ve been privileged enough to have tasted some rare whiskies, notably the Glenfiddich 1965 and, more recently, the Glen Grant 60 Years Old. Now I’d like to introduce you to the Bowmore Arc-52, a collab which exemplifies the heritage, craftsmanship and innovation of both Bowmore Distillery and Aston Martin. The fluid (pardon me) design of the striking decanter contains one of the oldest ever Bowmore whiskies, an unparalleled 52-year-old.

Out of 100 bottles available worldwide, two bottles will be available in Singapore from 2023 and are priced at US$89,000.

Aston Marton used the latest 3D printing and hand-crafted clay modelling to realise this dazzling form. One can’t help but be seduced by the meticulously engineered, bespoke magnetic key (which releases the striking aluminium top), the sleek, clean lines and hand-blown glass. Here I appreciate its dynamic balance and optimal form. This decanted deserved only the most worthy liquid.
And so, say hello to the Bowmore 52 years old.
Matured for a remarkable 52 years in a marriage of two cask styles, the Bowmore ARC-52 is married in two exact parts – 50% from an American Oak Hogshead and 50% from a European Oak Butt. This served to capture the classic, unquestionable complexity of Bowmore’s character.

I was also lucky to be hosted by Ron Welsh, Master Blender of Beam Suntory, who brought samples from Islay for us to try. Ron spoke proudly of the liquid and of Bowmore’s ambitious creation — Arc-52. I’m digging the sci-fi name and nodding in agreement. The Arc-52 showcases the best of Bowmore’s skill and commitment to considered cask maturation and management, which you can tell from the first nose, an elegant whiff of balanced and matured fruits and wood influences. On the palate, you can taste how apples and tropical fruits cohabit and, like a sports car in motion, the liquid radiated zestiness and an energetic, woody, chocolatey mouthful. The Arc-52 is one of the most elegant over-50-years whiskies I’ve ever tasted, and I’m just sorry most humans on Earth will not have the same privilege.

Because: Only 100 decanters of Bowmore Arc-52 will be available in key global markets including Canada, China, Germany, Netherlands, Singapore, UK,  USA and Global Travel Retail.

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