Bowmore has unveiled its latest release in partnership with Aston Martin, a 21-year-old single malt whisky called Bowmore Masters’ Selection. The Scotch brand and the British automaker began their partnership back in 2019, and have released three travel retail-exclusive whiskies and the £50,000 ($66,000 USD) Black Bowmore DB5 1964 single malt.
Bottled at 51.8% ABV, Bowmore Masters’ Selection is a collaboration between Bowmore master whisky blender Ron Welsh and Aston Martin executive vice president and chief creative officer Marek Reichman. The Scotch is made up of two main components: 61.8% of the final liquid is 21-year-old Bowmore whisky that was aged in first-fill Pedro Ximénez and oloroso Sherry casks, the remaining portion includes Bowmore whisky that was matured for more than 35 years.
“For the first time with this whisky, we have adopted the ‘golden ratio’ to inspire each of the elements bringing their own unique flavours and selecting the optimal casks to forge the desired character, taking inspiration from Marek and his team,” said Welsh. “What seems totally contrasting is, in fact, perfectly balanced and proportionate. Working with Marek has given me a new lens from which to explore whisky making. This whisky serves as a celebration of our unified knowledge and experience; our shared passions, values and ideas.”
Aston Martin’s Reichman often speaks about the “golden ratio,” the mathematical ratio found in nature that creates aesthetically pleasing compositions. “Proportionality defines every precise detail of designing an Aston Martin,” explained Reichman. “We are constantly striving to achieve the golden ratio; the optimal of proportions. And it is this force which guides the creation of absolute beauty.
“To achieve this, we must combine our skill, passion and experience. Coming together with Ron just brings a whole new perspective on this and is hugely inspiring and enlightening. This whisky perfectly and harmoniously brings us together to create a beautiful, yet powerful equilibrium.”
On the nose, the whisky offers aromas of Manuka honey, praline, grilled hazelnuts, leather, cigar tobacco, and heather blossom. The palate delivers flavors of Sherry, Islay peat, bitter dark chocolate, vanilla, coffee beans, and a touch of papaya. The finish is sweet, spicy and mouth-warming, with oak spice, chestnut cream, and coconut.
Bowmore Masters’ Selection is available in global markets, including the UK, Germany, Canada, the US, and China, and is priced at $300 per bottle.
For more information, head over to Bowmore’s official website.
