Welcome to WhiskyIntelligence.com where we'll be gathering information on the whisky industry and scotch whisky news in the form of press releases, newsletters, events, tasting notes and comments.
Please submit your press releases, newsletters, events, tasting notes or comments.
DAILUAINE 14 YEARS OLD
Palo Cortado Sherry Cask Finish
A single malt from Dailuaine Distillery located in the Speyside region. Finished in Palo Cortado sherry cask finish before bottling at the age of 14 years. Bottled by The Whisky Cellar for their Pintail collection, at 54.2% ABV, at natural colour and no chill filtration. Limited to 81 bottles.
Mark’s Whisky Ramblings 561: Port Charlotte 7 Year Old 2014 Islay Barley
Mark Dermul, Belgian whisky blogger, tries another special Ileach. Bruichladdich is known for producing three different malts: Bruichladdich, Port Charlotte, and Octomore. In Mark’s glass is a 7-year-old Port Charlotte, produced with locally grown barley, hence the name Islay Barley. It is surprisingly (well, yes) pale, knowing that it is a vatting of 84% bourbon, 8% virgin oak, and 8% Bordeaux wine casks. For the anoraks among us – you know who you are – Mark would like to add that the malt comes from these farms on Islay: Island, Cruach, Coull, Rockside, Dunlossit Estate, Mulindry, Craigens & Sunderland Farms. Let’s get to it!
• Designed by Aston Martin and featuring one of the oldest Bowmore whiskies.
• Bowmore ARC-54; the pinnacle, and final release in the groundbreaking ARC Series
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 Aston Martin Valkyrie hypercar.
Distilled in November 1968, this rare and remarkable spirit pays homage to the fact that our single malt excels with time in cask, aging like no other to capture the definitive multi-dimensional character of Bowmore. This whisky is the culmination of 54 years of maturation, latterly 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, before the two parts united for 15 months. The resulting whisky encapsulates infinite layers of flavour to captivate every sense, fully immersing the drinker in the depth of character.
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, Chief Blender, Bowmore said,
“A Bowmore as exquisite and complex as this 54-year-old is a 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, Executive Vice President and Chief Creative Officer, Aston Martin 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.”
With only 130 decanters available globally, Bowmore ARC-54 is a multi-dimensional flavour 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 reflects the two brands’ shared mindset when it comes to craftsmanship, the streamlined bottle design takes inspiration from both the flow of air underneath the iconic Aston Martin Valkyrie hypercar, 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 3rd, 2025.
Price available on request.
Tasting notes
ON THE EYE: Spun gold
BREATHE IN: Alluring sweet, syrupy vanilla merges with soft butterscotch and buttery shortbread, then gives way to tropical mango and sweet peach notes, before welcoming subtle hints of orange zest, toasted oak, candied walnuts and finely chopped eucalyptus mint.
TASTE: Led by rich fruity sweetness giving a depth of expressive character, it is freshly cut green apple, delicate citric tones of bergamot orange and lime juice that provide the opening act to taste. Flavours of salted caramel are complimented by floral notes as warming spices of ginger and sweet cinnamon lead to a gentle crescendo of whispering peat smoke.
SAVOUR: Intense yet lavish, long and smooth with sweet, herbal and peated character.
ABOUT BOWMORE®
For over 240 years, Bowmore distillery has stood on the shores of Lochindaal. Here facing the wild Atlantic Ocean, is home to the legendary No.1 Vaults and the mysterious alchemy within. We are more than an Islay distillery. We are the oldest distillery here.
Since 1779, we’ve been harnessing time in the creation of our exceptional Bowmore whiskies. This time has enabled us to hone our skills and make intentional choices. This means at Bowmore we can unlock the depth and breadth of multidimensional character.
From the careful and intentional ethos at the heart of the Bowmore distillery, every step and stage of the process is considered. We put flavour first. From floor maltings and peat smoke drying, to the long fermentation and slow distillation. The result of this precise and measured approach can be seen in the distinct flavours that Bowmore is famous for. A truly multidimensional whisky always promising more layers of flavour.
Every bottle of Bowmore celebrates our ability to mature with excellence, aging like no other to capture the definitive expressive character of Bowmore. Over time, our spirit evolves perfectly in cask, creating an enviable inventory of maturing stock and enabling an iconic archive of releases.
Our signature; a remarkably expressive character. We are defined by rich and fruity flavours with a smouldering complexity. Each sip of Bowmore is truly captivating. It beckons you, holding your full attention, pulling you into the present moment. This is the uniquely mesmerising magic which always reveals more, in every moment, in every sip. From flavour to flair, there is always more in the glass and in the moment.
www.bowmore.com
About Suntory Global Spirits
As a world leader in premium spirits, Suntory Global Spirits inspires the brilliance of life, by creating rich experiences for people, in harmony with nature. Known for its craftsmanship of premium whiskies, including Jim Beam® and Maker’s Mark®; Japanese whiskies, including Yamazaki®, Hakushu®, Hibiki® and Toki™; and leading Scotch brands including Laphroaig® and Bowmore®, Suntory Global Spirits also produces leading brands such as Tres Generaciones® and El Tesoro® tequila, Roku™ and Sipsmith® gin, and is a world leader in Ready-To-Drink cocktails, with brands like -196™ (minus one-nine-six) and On The Rocks™ Premium Cocktails.
A global company with approximately 6,000 employees in nearly 30 countries, Suntory Global Spirits is driven by its core values of Growing for Good, Yatte Minahare and Giving Back to Society. The company’s Proof Positive sustainability strategy includes ambitious goals and investments to drive sustainable change and have a positive impact on the planet, consumers and communities. Headquartered in New York City, Suntory Global Spirits is a subsidiary of Suntory Holdings Limited of Japan. For more information, visit www.suntoryglobalspirits.com and www.drinksmart.com.
ABOUT SOPHIA THAKUR
Sophia Thakur is an award-winning spoken word artist, author, songwriter and musician. Described by the BBC as ‘The Poet of this Generation’ and by Vogue as ‘One of the most adored poets of our time,’ she was also featured on Forbes’ 30 Under 30 list as a trailblazer in her craft. The spoken word artist climbed onto the stage at the age of 16 with a refreshing and intimate take on traditional poetry and has sold out multiple solo headline shows at The Jazz Cafe, Bush Hall, Omeara, The Lower Third, The Rockefeller Centre and iconic venues in Africa and Europe. She has also been invited to play stages and stations around the world, most notably; Glastonbury, The Royal Albert Hall, Sky TV, BBC and the TEDx stage, twice.
Sophia is a storyteller from every angle. Her BBC documentary rose to public acclaim for revising how documentaries are usually approached, whilst introducing a new poetic way of educating through art.
Successfully bridging the gap between poetry and the modern world, she has forged global partnerships with brands such as Tiffany & Co., Calvin Klein and Nike, among others. Sophia is the author of three books Wearing My Mother’s Heart, Superheroes and Somebody Give This Heart a Pen, a #1 bestseller.
Sotheby’s to Offer Bowmore ARC-54: The ‘Iridos Edition’,
A Unique Decanter Designed by Aston Martin
Featuring an Equally Unique 54-Year-Old Whisky from the
Bowmore Distillery
Online Auction Open for Bidding from 15 to 29 May 2025
LONDON, 1 May 2025 – This spring, Sotheby’s will present at auction Bowmore ARC-54: Iridos Edition, a unique decanter designed by Aston Martin housing an equally unique 54-Year-Old whisky from Bowmore Distillery on Islay, Scotland. The offering marks Sotheby’s latest partnership with Bowmore following the sale of the Iridos Edition’s predecessor – the one-of-a-kind Bowmore ARC-52 Mokume Edition – in 2023.
Crafted from some of Bowmore’s oldest vintages from the 1960s by Calum Fraser, Chief Blender, the bespoke single malt was drawn from two cask types: a 1967 European oak butt, a 1968 Sherry butt and a 1968 American oak hogshead. The mid to late 1960s at Bowmore is considered a golden era, a period during which the famed Black Bowmore was distilled. The vintages produced have gone on to become highly sought after by collectors.
Bowmore ARC-54 Iridos Edition will be offered by Sotheby’s London in an online auction of Finest Whisky, open for bidding from 15 to 29 May, with an estimate of £140,000-220,000 ($180,000-300,000). Proceeds from the auction will benefit the communities which support Suntory Global Spirits’ distilleries in Scotland. This follows on from the donation of the proceeds from the auction of Bowmore ARC-52 Mokume Edition to the Islay community.
This one-off release calls on the world of automotive engineering from Aston Martin Valkyrie for its distinctly complex design. The striking shape of the handblown decanter takes inspiration from the F1-inspired aerodynamic exterior of the Aston Martin Valkyrie hypercar, as well as 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.
Taking its name from the Latin origin of the word combining ‘rainbow’ and ‘iridescent’, the titanium top of the decanter has been created using the same process applied to the Aston Martin Valkyrie’s exhaust system. Milled from a single billet of titanium, it was then subjected to extreme changes in temperature, both hot and cold – like the exhaust of the Valkyrie – to create a unique iridescent bluing patternation on the metal. The finish achieved is visually and technically stunning, with multi-layered facets of colours emerging from every angle.
Jonny Fowle, Sotheby’s Global Head of Whisky & Spirits, said: “This marks the second partnership between Sotheby’s and Bowmore to offer at auction a completely unique version of their Aston Martin ARC collaboration. The ARC-54 Iridos not only features its distinctive iridescent lid, complimenting the aerodynamic Aston Martin design, but within the bottle itself is an individual whisky so rare that only one bottle has been made available for sale. In the last few years, Bowmore have consistently achieved the highest results for unique bottles combining age, rarity, vintage specificity and stunning design, so it’s a special moment for us to be entrusted once again with their latest creation.”
Marek Reichman, Aston Martin Executive Vice President and Chief Creative Officer, commented: “This remarkable one-off creation is testament to the cutting edge, technology-based collaboration between two exceptional brands that are steeped in heritage and tradition. ARC-54 Iridos embodies the innovative thinking that we apply to Valkyrie and Valhalla, our mid-engined sports cars. Both of these cars push the boundaries of technology through materials, aerodynamics and performance. In creating the 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.”
Calum Fraser, Chief Blender at Bowmore, said: “This is a whisky which tells a rich and captivating story, beginning in the definitive era of Bowmore and taking shape over more than half a century. In bringing together some of our oldest and rarest whiskies, we showcase not only the infinite layers of flavour achievable in Bowmore but the sheer excellence of just how our spirit excels in cask over time. The intensity of the tropical fruits together with indulgently rich sweetness is truly enticing and makes for the most intriguing and inspired partner for this incredible decanter.”
Sotheby’s has set records for both Bowmore and Aston Martin in recent years:
Bowmore ARC-54 Iridos Edition tasting notes:
CASK TYPES: Oloroso Sherry seasoned European oak butt, refill Sherry butt, American oak ex-bourbon hogshead.
AGE: 54 Years Old, vatting of 1967 and 1968
ABV: 42.3%
Tasting notes
ON THE EYE: Burnished chestnut.
BREATHE IN: Luscious, sweet, rich and complex. Polished mahogany intertwined with tropical fruit notes of soft peach, guava, desiccated coconut and gently charred ripe pineapple. The uplifting tropical fruit notes are further elevated with hints of citric orange zest are balanced harmoniously with indulgent rich fruit notes of honeyed figs, dates and moist sultanas in addition to chocolate orange with hints of sweet cinnamon together with herbal and minty notes of menthol.
TASTE: An abundance of tropical and citrus fruits layered with hints of toasted almonds and delicate Islay peat smoke. Lemon meringue, mandarin oranges, peaches in syrup and mango captivate the palate, and lead to rich notes of toasted oak, cocoa powder and creamy fudge.
SAVOUR: Long, smooth tropical fruits notes, notably passion fruit with sensations of sweet spice and gentle peat in the background
About Sotheby’s
Established in 1744, Sotheby’s is the world’s premier destination for art and luxury. Sotheby’s promotes access to and ownership of exceptional art and luxury objects through auctions and buy-now channels including private sales, e-commerce and retail. Our trusted global marketplace is supported by an industry-leading technology platform and a network of specialists spanning 40 countries and 70 categories which include Contemporary Art, Modern and Impressionist Art, Old Masters, Chinese Works of Art, Jewelry, Watches, Wine and Spirits, and Design, as well as collectible cars and real estate. Sotheby’s believes in the transformative power of art and culture and is committed to making our industries more inclusive, sustainable and collaborative.
*Estimates do not include buyer’s premium or overhead premium. Prices achieved include the hammer price plus buyer’s premium and overhead premium and are net of any fees paid to the purchaser where the purchaser provided an irrevocable bid.
Stream live auctions and place bids in real time, discover the value of a work of art, browse sale catalogues, view original content and more at sothebys.com, and by downloading Sotheby’s app for iOS and Android.
ABOUT BOWMORE®
For over 240 years, Bowmore distillery has stood on the shores of Lochindaal. Here facing the wild Atlantic Ocean, is home to the legendary No.1 Vaults and the mysterious alchemy within. We are more than an Islay distillery. We are the oldest licensed distillery here.
Since 1779, we’ve been harnessing time in the creation of our exceptional Bowmore whiskies. This time has enabled us to hone our skills and make intentional choices. This means only Bowmore can unlock the depth and breadth of character.
From the careful and intentional ethos at the heart of the Bowmore distillery, every step and stage of the process is considered. We put flavour first. Taking traditional techniques and uniting them with creative vision we can ensure that each component plays its part. From floor maltings and peat smoke drying, to the long fermentation and slow distillation. The result of this precise and measured approach can be seen in the distinct flavours that Bowmore is famous for. A truly multidimensional whisky always promising more layers of flavour.
Every bottle of Bowmore celebrates our ability to mature with excellence, aging like no other to capture the definitive expressive character of Bowmore. Over time, our spirit evolves perfectly in cask, creating an enviable inventory of maturing stock and enabling an iconic archive of releases.
Our signature; a remarkably expressive character. We are defined by rich and fruity flavours with a smouldering complexity. Each sip of Bowmore is truly captivating. It beckons you, holding your full attention, pulling you into the present moment. This is the uniquely mesmerising magic which always reveals more, in every moment, in every sip. From flavour to flair, there is always more in the glass and in the moment.
ABOUT ASTON MARTIN LAGONDA
Aston Martin’s vision is to be the world’s most desirable, ultra-luxury British brand, creating the most exquisitely addictive performance cars.
Founded in 1913 by Lionel Martin and Robert Bamford, Aston Martin is acknowledged as an iconic global brand synonymous with style, luxury, performance, and exclusivity. Aston Martin fuses the latest technology, time honoured craftsmanship and beautiful styling to produce a range of critically acclaimed luxury models including the Vantage, DB12, DBS, DBX and its first hypercar, the Aston Martin Valkyrie. Aligned with its Racing. Green. sustainability strategy, Aston Martin is also developing alternatives to the internal combustion engine, with an ambition to create the world’s most thrilling and highly desirable electric performance cars, the first of which is targeted for launch in 2026.
Based in Gaydon, England, Aston Martin Lagonda designs, creates, and exports cars which are sold in 56 countries around the world. Its sports cars are manufactured in Gaydon with its luxury DBX SUV range proudly manufactured in St Athan, Wales. The company is on track to deliver net-zero manufacturing facilities by 2030.
Lagonda was founded in 1899 and came together with Aston Martin in 1947 when both were purchased by the late Sir David Brown, and the company is now listed on the London Stock Exchange as Aston Martin Lagonda Global Holdings plc.
2020 saw Lawrence Stroll become the company’s Executive Chairman, alongside significant new investment. This coincided with Aston Martin’s return to the pinnacle of motorsport with the Aston Martin Aramco Formula One® Team and commenced a new era for the iconic British marque.
Named for the Japanese word meaning ‘cherry blossom viewing at night’, the Grand Yozakura has spent a long 29-year slumber maturing in American and European Oak casks at the Glenfiddich distillery, before being finished in 25 ultra-rare Awamori casks for six months – Awamori being a spirit made from long grain indica rice, indigenous to the southern region of Okinawa, Japan. A limited edition bottling, it is presented in a gorgeously decorated floral box, complete with a hanko stamp engraved bespoke stopper. Bottled at 45.1% abv.
Expect notes of caramelised almonds, oak, cinnamon and a distinctive herbal kick on the nose. On the palate we find flavours of toasted oak, creamy vanilla and silky tannins. Bursts of spice and sherbet lemons with green apple. The finish is long, with a lasting oak note.
Free Next Day Delivery for 12 Months For just £14.95 you can enjoy free next day delivery on all your orders for a whole year! Geographic restrictions apply, see full T&Cs. Find out more ❯
Indulge in the exquisite sophistication of Timorous Beastie 18 years old, a pinnacle expression within our Signature Series, available exclusively on douglaslaing.com, this special release has been crafted with meticulous care and aged to perfection in the finest Spanish Sherry Casks. Limited to just 650 bottles globally, you can expect a richer, sweeter profile of vanilla, juicy barley and dark chocolate… culminating in a decadent finish of macerated dark fruits and spiced orange.. Experience luxury in every sip!
The original Timorous Beastie, immortalised in Robert Burns’ famous Scots poem “To a Mouse” was a timid, little field mouse. Echoing our national bard’s wit, ours is most certainly not for the fainthearted! Inside there’s a medley of vanilla, malted barley, meringue, honey and citrus flavours just bursting to be unleashed… Part of the Remarkable Regional Malts range, the ultimate distillation of Scotland’s Malt Whisky Regions.
Benrinnes 16 Years Old
A single malt from Benrinnes Distillery in the Speyside region. Aged for 16 years in refill American Oak casks before bottling. This single malt showcases a heavy, meaty style of Speyside malt with notes of toasted oak, peanut oil, citrus peel and white pepper. Bottled by The Whisky Cellar for the Brig O’Perth collection, at 56.1% ABV, at a natural colour and no chill filtration.
Sazerac Company Proudly Introduces Hawk’s Rock Distillery
Steeped in the natural beauty of County Sligo, Ireland, Hawk’s Rock represents the rebranding of Lough Gill Distillery, which was acquired by the spirits leader in 2022
County Sligo, Ireland (April 23, 2025) – Leading global spirits company Sazerac, which owns and operates award-winning distilleries and homeplaces worldwide including Buffalo Trace Distillery in Kentucky; Domaine Sazerac de Segonzac in Cognac, France; and Paul John Distillery in Goa, India, is proud to announce the renaming of its recently-acquired Irish Whiskey Distillery to Hawk’s Rock Distillery. Formerly known as Lough Gill Distillery, Hawk’s Rock will continue to produce and age Irish Whiskey under the watchful eye of Master Blender Helen Mulholland on the over 100-acre site located in County Sligo, Ireland, which includes the nationally listed historic landmark Hazelwood House.
The name change reflects Sazerac Company’s vision for the future of Irish Whiskey – the art and science of blending, innovation and respect for Sligo’s rich heritage. Named after a prominent outcrop in the Ox Mountains that inspired Nobel Prize winning poet William Butler (W.B.) Yeats’ play “At the Hawk’s Well”, Hawk’s Rock Distillery aims to become a global hub for Irish Whiskey, while offering a gateway to explore the rich traditions of Sligo and the surrounding region.
“The renaming of Hawk’s Rock Distillery marks a new, yet familiar, frontier for us,” says Sazerac President and CEO Jake Wenz. “Sazerac is known for its balanced approach to honoring tradition while embracing change in constant pursuit of crafting the world’s best spirits at our distilleries in America, India, Canada and France. Our mission holds true for Ireland, and we are excited to reveal how we are blending time-honored traditions with bold innovation to advance the art of Irish whiskey-making.”
Leading the Hawk’s Rock distillation team as Master Blender is Helen Mulholland, the first female Master Blender in Irish Whiskey history, Chair of the Irish Whiskey Association and a Whisky Hall of Fame inductee. She and her carefully-selected team have been entrusted with leading the creation and blending of Hawk’s Rock’s innovative new-to-world Irish whiskey brands, the first of which will debut in June 2025.
Sazerac Company acquired Lough Gill Distillery in 2022, drawn by its historical significance and the cultural richness of Ireland. Since then, the team has upgraded and tripled its warehouse capacity, expanded production and is modernizing the distillery, ensuring continued growth while maintaining its commitment to quality.
“This rebrand is just the beginning for Hawk’s Rock Distillery,” says Wenz. “Throughout the changes at Hawk’s Rock, our vision remains the same – creating a track record for the aging and blending of award-winning whiskeys – and this name change brings us one step closer to bringing that vision to life.”
While Hawk’s Rock Distillery is closed to the public during renovations, Sazerac has received planning permission to develop a future visitor experience in Sligo.
For more information, please visit www.hawksrockdistillery.com.
About Sazerac
With over 400 years of history, Sazerac is one of the world’s largest distilled spirits companies. Now in the fourth generation of the current family ownership, Sazerac strives each day to bring the finest spirits to consumers and communities around the world. Over 500 of the world’s most extraordinary brands are part of the Sazerac portfolio, including Buffalo Trace Bourbon, Eagle Rare, Weller, The Last Drop Distillers, Fireball Cinnamon Whisky, Southern Comfort, Wheatley Vodka, Meyers’s Rum, White X Cognac, Sazerac de Forge Cognac, Paddy’s Irish Whiskey, and many more. Sazerac is also the steward of many fine distilleries internationally, including Buffalo Trace Distillery in Kentucky, United States; Domaine Sazerac de Segonzac in Cognac, France; Paul John Distillery in Goa, India; and Hawk’s Rock Distillery in County Sligo, Ireland. Additional impressive locations can be found in New Orleans, Montréal, London, Cork and Sydney, to name a few. To learn more visit www.sazerac.com.
