Close up of the ARC-54 Iridos decanter with serial engraving

ARC-54 IRIDOS EDITION

A CELEBRATION OF FLOW

Introducing Bowmore ARC-54 Iridos Edition – a singular, sculptural creation that unites the worlds of whisky making and automotive engineering in remarkable harmony. A creation, half Bowmore, half Aston Martin, this rare and captivating spirit showcases the flair which defines our single malt and captures the concept of flow – in form, in flavour and in philosophy. 

Encapsulating the design vision of an Aston Martin Valkyrie, this masterpiece is sculpted with precision. With over five decades spent within the hallowed walls of the No.1 Vaults, this whisky celebrates the journey of a lifetime through unrivalled flavour and character.

This is 54 years in the making. And one-of-one in the world. 

Bowmore ARC-54 Iridos Decanter

A LUSTROUS SPIRIT, A STRIKING SHAPE

Crafted with intent, this one-of-a-kind Bowmore is a masterful, multi-dimensional single malt. A character shaped by over half a century of exquisite maturation. Drawn from the combination of an Oloroso sherry seasoned European oak butt, a refill sherry butt and an American oak ex-bourbon hogshead. This is a rare creation from that iconic decade in our story. 

Housing this captivating spirit is a striking vessel at the forefront of complex design and creation. Taking its name from Latin origin with the combined meanings ‘rainbow’ and ‘iridescent’, the titanium top of the decanter has been created using an advanced process inspired by high-performance engineering.  

Milled from a single billet of titanium and subjected to extreme changes in temperature, both hot and cold, this technique creates 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. The use of such fluid design celebrates our philosophy and heroes the whisky within. 

UNIFIED SYNERGY

For Bowmore, ARC-54 Iridos Edition celebrates the timeless quest for flavour, from the influence of the distillery’s coastal home to the fluidity present throughout the distillation process, and ultimately to the layers of more character in glass.

Dark haired woman in blue clothing reclining against coastal background
Aston Martin Valkyrie Back Curve Detail

 Flow and balance are critical to every aspect of design. From fluid reflections and sculptural flow to lyrical lines and organic forms, each element is both purposeful and powerful. 

ARC-54 Iridos Edition embodies this harmony. It unites the mastery and skill of our whisky makers with an uncompromising dedication to precision and innovation. 

"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 the sheer depth and breadth of flavour achievable in Bowmore. 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.”
 

Calum Fraser

Bowmore Chief Blender 

 

 

iridos arc-54 decanter

IRIDOS EDITION HEADS TO AUCTION

This Spring, a true original will take centre stage. Bowmore ARC-54 Iridos Edition: a one-of-a-kind decanter, crafted with exceptional design expertise, housing a 54 year old single malt drawn from Bowmore’s rarest 1960s casks, will be auctioned by Sotheby’s London.  

This one-off release follows the celebrated sale of Bowmore’s ARC-52 Mokume Edition in 2023. Created by Bowmore Chief Blender Calum Fraser, the Iridos Edition is a marriage of vintages from 1967 and 1968; a golden era in Bowmore history.  

The decanter captures the natural flowing form of the landscapes and terroir of Islay, while reflecting an aerodynamic design language inspired by high-performance engineering, with sculpted lines that convey a sense of movement and precision.   

Bidding for Bowmore ARC-54 Iridos Edition will be open from 15 – 29 May 2025 in an online auction. Proceeds from the auction will benefit the communities which support Suntory Global Spirit’s 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.

 

Bowmore Iridos ARC -54 with box
Dram of ARC-54