Each handblown decanter is characterised by the F1-inspired aerodynamic exterior design of the Aston Martin Valkyrie hypercar, blending its full-length venturi tunnels and a diffuser shaped glass sculpture with the natural fluid forms of the terroir of Islay.

Bowmore Distillery has unveiled the concluding release in the ARC Series, a partnership between the Islay single malt Scotch whisky and luxury British automotive manufacturer Aston Martin.

Bowmore ARC-54 marries a rare 54-year-old whisky with an eye-catching handblown decanter inspired by the cutting-edge lines of the Aston Martin Valkyrie hypercar.

A mere 130 decanters of Bowmore ARC-54 are available globally, with 20 set aside for key travel retail partners beginning with Dubai Duty Free this May.

Suntory Global Spirits says the move demonstrates the importance of global travel retail to the firm’s spirits portfolio.

It calls the last year a ‘milestone’ for Bowmore in the channel, underpinned by the revealing of a new brand world and visual identity.

This new transformational style was first showcased through the Bowmore Appellations Collection travel retail exclusive whisky range, which debuted in October 2024.

“Bowmore ARC-54 represents a pinnacle of craftsmanship, and we are thrilled to present this extraordinary release to discerning travellers in select locations through our valued travel retail partners,” commented Nandini Valio, Suntory Global Spirits Senior Marketing Director for Global Travel Retail.

“It is absolutely fitting that Bowmore ARC-54 will be highlighted in the travel retail channel, which is a vital global stage for showcasing Bowmore’s prestige portfolio.

“The Bowmore Appellations Collection was the first chapter in a new story of elevation and premiumisation for the brand. The unveiling of ARC-54 builds on that momentum and further extends our legacy within the world of rare and remarkable whiskies.”

Marek Reichman, Executive Vice President and Chief Creative Officer, Aston Martin added: “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 of 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.”

Distilled in 1968, the liquid is matured largely in a second fill European Oak Sherry butt and third fill American Oak Hogshead contained within the walls of the No. 1 Vaults at the distillery in Islay.

Bowmore ARC-54 relies on the ‘Golden Ratio’ of 61.8% European Oak aged spirit and 38.2% American Oak aged spirit, before the two parts unite for 15 months.

The result is a complex flavour profile, boasting citric and floral notes against hints of salty caramel, spiced ginger and cinnamon accented by Bowmore’s signature peat smoke.

READ MORE: Bowmore & Aston Martin partnership goes to next gear with new launches