Sotheby’s has announced the upcoming auction of Bowmore ARC-54: The Iridos Edition, a one-of-a-kind 54-year-old single malt presented in a decanter designed in partnership with Aston Martin.
Crafted by Calum Fraser, Bowmore’s Chief Blender, this unique expression draws from a marriage of three casks: a 1967 Oloroso Sherry-seasoned European oak butt, a 1968 refill Sherry butt, and a 1968 American oak ex-bourbon hogshead. Bottled at 42.3% ABV, the whisky reflects over half a century of maturation at Bowmore’s iconic Islay distillery.
The whisky offers a rich and layered profile, beginning with polished mahogany, tropical fruits such as guava, peach, and charred pineapple, followed by deeper notes of honeyed figs, sultanas, chocolate orange, and hints of menthol. On the palate, it delivers mandarin orange, mango, toasted almonds, and subtle Islay peat smoke, with a finish marked by lingering passion fruit, sweet spice, and gentle smoke.
The decanter itself is a technical feat: handblown glass formed into a flowing silhouette inspired by the aerodynamics of the Aston Martin Valkyrie. Its titanium stopper has been crafted using the same extreme-temperature treatment process employed for the Valkyrie’s exhaust system, resulting in a distinct iridescent bluing effect.
Sotheby’s online auction of the Bowmore ARC-54: The Iridos Edition will take place from May 15 to May 29, with an estimated hammer price of £140,000–£220,000 ($180,000–$300,000). Proceeds from the sale will benefit local communities supporting Suntory Global Spirits’ distilleries in Scotland.
This release continues Bowmore’s ongoing collaboration with Aston Martin and marks one of the rarest and most artistically presented whiskies to reach auction in 2025.
