Bowmore, the esteemed Islay whisky distillery, has made a remarkable commitment by contributing its most ancient release ever to the Distiller's One of One Charity Auction. This noble endeavor aims to raise critical funds for underprivileged young adults in Scotland through the Youth Action Fund.
The Distillers One of One auction, a brainchild of The Distillers’ Charity, is dedicated to empowering disadvantaged young adults in Scotland, enabling them to instigate positive transformations in both their lives and communities. By collaborating with charitable organizations offering education and vocational training programs, including distillation training, the fund provides these young individuals with opportunities to cultivate essential life skills, identify their core values, and become workforce-ready.
The star of the show at the upcoming auction, to be held at Hopetoun House on October 5th by Sotheby’s, is the Bowmore STAC. This exceptional 55-year-old liquid is elegantly presented in a 1.5-liter hand-blown vessel artfully crafted to resemble a rugged rock face. Its estimated value ranges from £300,000 to £500,000.
Distilled back in 1962, this rare single malt has matured gracefully in second-filled American oak hogsheads, nestled within Bowmore's prestigious No.1 Vaults.
Described by the distillery as having "tawny hues opening with fresh, vibrant aromas full of soft orchard fruits and honey," this whisky vividly captures the tropical essence of fresh pineapple and honeydew melon, merging harmoniously with notes of pecan nuts and floral honeysuckle. As the glass approaches the lips, subtle hints of menthol and minerality gradually emerge.
Upon tasting, it reveals a medley of flavors, including liquorice, cocoa nibs, and dark-roasted coffee beans, which seamlessly unite with caramel and shortbread. This delightful journey culminates in toasted oak spices and peat smoke, leading to a warm and enduring finish.
Daryl Haldane, the Global Private Client Director at Bowmore, expressed, "Bowmore STAC is a significant milestone in showcasing the exceptional aged spirit we have crafted at Bowmore, and a truly proud moment for us all. For 55 years, this rare single malt has been quietly aging, capturing flavor and character more as time has passed."
Haldane continued, "We are delighted to be able to showcase the craftsmanship of this legendary Scotch whisky and share this masterpiece in support of such an important cause, and also play our part in this landmark coming together of the Scotch whisky industry." This exceptional gesture by Bowmore reflects the industry's commitment to philanthropy and excellence, making a meaningful impact on the lives of Scotland's young adults.
About The Distillers One of One Auction
The Distillers One of One auction is a prestigious event organized by The Distillers' Charity with a noble purpose at its heart. This charitable initiative is designed to support disadvantaged young adults in Scotland, empowering them to make positive changes in their lives and communities. It stands as a testament to the Scottish whisky industry's commitment to social responsibility and philanthropy.
The primary objective of this auction is to raise vital funds for the Youth Action Fund, which partners with various charitable organizations offering education and vocational training programs. These programs, which can include distillation training among other skills, provide young people with opportunities to develop essential life skills, discover their values, and become better prepared for the workforce.
One of the highlights of the Distillers One of One auction is the offering of rare and exceptional whiskies, often from renowned distilleries like Bowmore. These whiskies are not only prized for their exquisite taste and craftsmanship but also for their capacity to contribute significantly to the fundraising efforts of the charity. The auction brings together collectors, enthusiasts, and philanthropists from around the world, creating a unique platform where the worlds of fine spirits and social impact converge.
Through the Distillers One of One auction, The Distillers' Charity not only celebrates the artistry and tradition of Scottish whisky but also makes a substantial and lasting impact on the lives of young adults in Scotland who are striving to build a brighter future. This auction serves as a remarkable example of how the whisky industry can use its influence and resources to benefit society and make a difference in the lives of those in need.
About The Bowmore Distillery
Bowmore is a distinguished name in the world of Scotch whisky, renowned for its rich heritage and exceptional single malt offerings. Situated on the picturesque Isle of Islay in Scotland, Bowmore is one of the island's oldest distilleries, with a history dating back to 1779. Its location, nestled by the shores of Loch Indaal, imparts a unique maritime influence to its whiskies, resulting in a flavor profile that captures the essence of Islay.
One of the distinctive characteristics of Bowmore whisky is its use of peat, which is locally sourced from the island. This peat imparts a gentle smokiness to the whisky, balancing harmoniously with the fruity and briny notes, creating a complex and well-rounded flavor profile. Bowmore's commitment to traditional production methods, including the use of traditional wooden washbacks and copper pot stills, ensures that its whisky maintains a high standard of quality.
Bowmore's core range of single malts includes a variety of expressions, from the elegant and approachable 12-year-old to the more mature and complex 18-year-old and 25-year-old releases. Additionally, Bowmore is known for its limited-edition releases and special cask finishes, which often garner significant attention from whisky enthusiasts and collectors.
The distillery's No. 1 Vaults, located below sea level, is a storied maturation warehouse where the casks of Bowmore whisky age gracefully, influenced by the cool, damp Islay air and the salt-laden sea breeze. This unique aging environment contributes to the development of the whisky's distinctive character.
Bowmore is not just a producer of fine Scotch whisky; it's also a beacon of Islay's whisky heritage and culture. Visitors to the distillery can immerse themselves in its history through guided tours and tastings, gaining a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship that goes into each bottle.
In the world of Scotch whisky, Bowmore stands as a testament to tradition, quality, and the enduring allure of Islay's whisky-making legacy. Its whiskies are celebrated for their complexity, balance, and the unmistakable influence of the island's rugged, maritime terroir. Bowmore continues to be a beloved choice for whisky connoisseurs seeking a taste of Islay's finest.
