Bowmore 1957: The Oldest and Most Expensive Islay Whisky

October 25, 2012

Whiskies are produced all over the world.  There are states doing traditional distilling of whiskies such as Kentucky, Canada, and Ireland, and then there are new distilleries emerging from India, Japan and other countries all over the globe.  But the country with by far and away the most distilleries remains Scotland.  As a matter of fact, with the numerous distilleries in Scotland, they have been classified according to regions such as Island, Speyside, Campbeltown, Lowland, and Highland.  Among the best producers of whiskies in the Scottish Islands, there is one island that sticks out as the region’s distinct whisky producer.

This is the Islay Island, which has eight distilleries working at present.  The whiskies produced in the island are famous for being flavorful and smokey, opposite to the delicate and light whiskies produced from other regions.  Because of this, the island’s whiskies are in demand among aficionados who often do not drink other beverages.

 

One of the Islay Island distilleries is the Bowmore.  It was built in 1779 and among Scotland’s oldest distilleries.  Just recently, it has also launched the oldest malt.  Bowmore 1957 Single Malt Whisky has been launched in limited 12 bottles that are hand sculpted with seawave-patterned platinum strands by Nichola Burns and Brodie Nairn and platinum-made stopper and collar from Hamilton & Inches.  Each decanter is 700 ml and placed in a wooden case made of Arniston Estate Scottish oak with handcraft design together with 2 glasses and a water jug for complete enjoyment in case any of the 12 owners decide to drink this famous whiskey.

This is not just Bowmore’s oldest whisky ever produced.  It is the oldest malt of Islay as well and the priciest whisky that has ever been placed on auction.  Bonhams recently auctioned one of the limited 12 bottled whiskies with proceeds to be given to 5 medical charities in Scotland.  Unfortunately, the bottled whisky was not sold when the bidding price did not reach the $160,000 (£100,000) reserve price.  However it will be auctioned again in Miami on the 28^th of October.  So if you feel that the six figures is not much of a price for a one-of-a-kind whisky then you should check Bonhams.