Simon Wittenberg gathers together some of the latest news and launches, making the headlines in the world of whisky.
Bowmore ARC-54
Following in the footsteps of ARC-52, which we had the opportunity to sample back in May 2023 in the company of Bowmore’s former Master Blender, Ron Walsh, Aston Martin – the luxury carmaker, and Islay’s Bowmore distillery, have come together once again to create the second and final release in the ARC series.
This latest edition, called ARC-54, is inspired by the flowing curves of the Aston Martin Valkyrie hypercar.
Distilled in November 1968, the 54-year-old Bowmore whisky (44.3% ABV) has spent over half a century laid down in a second fill European oak Sherry butt, and a third fill American oak hogshead within the Scottish distillery’s No.1 Vaults.
Those lucky enough to sample this rare spirit will enjoy a multi-dimensional drinking experience boasting zesty citric tones and delicate floral notes, which marry together with salty caramel sweetness, spiced ginger and cinnamon, topped with a signature whisper of peat smoke.
Only 130 bottles have been made available, and whilst pricing is available on request, our research shows that Bowmore ARC-54 costs in the region of around £80,000.
For more information, see www.bowmore.com.
Dewar’s Aberfeldy Distillery Whisky Explorer Experience
Following on from the successful introduction of the Warehouse Experience last year, The Dewar’s Aberfeldy Distillery near the Cairngorms National Park has unveiled its Whisky Explorer Experience, highlighting the brand’s commitment to redefining whisky tourism.
Costing £60 per head, the visit starts with an introductory film, which then leads to the heritage museum, and culminates with a guided distillery tour, which gives guests a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the whisky-making process, from grain to glass.
For further details, see www.dewars.com/gl/en/aberfeldydistillery.
Loch Lomond Whiskies x The Open
Loch Lomond Whiskies has launched, not one, but two limited editions to celebrate the famed golf championship named The Open. Carrying an RRP of £250, first up is The Open Course Collection 2025 (46.7% ABV).
Crafted by award-winning master blender, Michael Henry, this 22-year-old single malt has been laid down in American oak barrels and hogsheads, before being finished in hand-selected first-fill Spanish oak casks – a nod to the Spanish Armada ship, La Girona, which sank off the coast of Royal Portrush in 1588.
Priced at £45 with a 46% ABV, the second single malt is The Open Special Edition 2025, which was aged in American oak, and finished for eight months in the finest first-fill Chianti casks. On the nose, there’s redcurrant, raspberry, apple, and vanilla, whilst notes of honey, peach, pear and red berries, sit on the palate.
For more information, see www.lochlomondwhiskies.com.
Johnnie Walker Black Ruby
One of the latest releases to be added to the Johnnie Walker line-up is Black Ruby. Blended by Dr. Emma Walker, and ideal as a mixer for cocktails, this expression combines carefully selected whiskies from Highland distilleries, such as Clynelish, to create a rich creamy taste, whilst spirits from the Lowland distilleries Glenkinchie and Cameronbridge, bring delicate vanilla notes and sweet fruitiness.
Similarly, Speyside whiskies hailing from Cardhu deliver notes of red apples and berries, before specially hand-selected whiskies sourced from Caol Ila, grant a delicate sweet smoky finish.
Johnnie Walker Black Ruby (40% ABV) is currently retailing for around £37.
For further information, see www.johnniewalker.com.
The Macallan Distil Your World Hong Kong
Following on from London, New York, and Mexico, a fourth expression has been added to The Macallan’s Distil Your World collection. Named Distil Your World Hong Kong, it pays testament to this region’s fusion of tradition and modernity, and the meticulous craft and creativity that define The Macallan.
Boasting a naturally dark hue, and bottled at 48.6% ABV, this Scotch whisky has been laid down in Sherry seasoned European Oak hogsheads, delivering notes of ginger and cinnamon, echoing other local spices discovered in Hong Kong’s vibrant markets. Gentle waves of aged oak, grapefruit and an umami-like depth, grace the palate.
The Macallan Distil Your World Hong Kong is available at an RRP of £4,100.
For further details, see www.themacallan.com.
Torabhaig Sound of Sleat
The Torabhaig distillery on the picturesque Isle of Skye has unveiled the “Sound of Sleat” – the fourth addition to its Legacy Series. Taking its name from the brand’s location and the narrow sea that sits adjacent to the distillery, this expression, which continues the tradition of elegant smoky flavours, has been laid down in new oak and ex-bourbon casks.
Whisky connoisseurs are treated to notes of light and zesty oak spice, as well as hints of honey and vanilla, balanced with sea salt and seaweed, which give way to flavours of white pepper and sweet spice.
This single malt also sees the unveiling of new labels on Torabhaig bottles, created exclusively by local artists. The first creative to be showcased on the latest Sound of Sleat release is Ellis O’Connor, whose paintings bring to life the energy and movement of the natural world.
From the 45,000 bottles of Torabhaig Sound of Sleat that are available, 7,000 will be on sale in the UK at an RRP of £57, initially from The Whisky Shop.
For further details, see www.torabhaig.com.
Whisky 1901: Exclusive Insight into Whisky Cask Investment from Founder and CEO Aaron Damiano Sparkes
The UK whisky industry, especially Scotch, is heavily reliant on global markets, none more so than the US, which accounts for over £1 billion ($1.2 billion) in annual exports. A new 10% US tariff on UK goods, compared to 20% on EU imports, echoes past challenges. When the US imposed a 25% tariff on Single Malt Scotch in 2019, the industry lost £600 million ($732 million) in exports over 18 months.
For investors, this presents both risk and opportunity. On the one hand, escalating trade conflicts could trigger a short-term dip in prices as higher tariffs make Scotch whisky less competitive in the US market. On the other, the scarcity of Scotch in certain regions, due to restrictions, could drive up demand for rare and collectible bottles, particularly those tied to prestigious distilleries, creating a unique investment opportunity.
To stay resilient, investors should look to diversify their investment portfolios to reduce an overreliance on any single market, such as the US. As trade tensions grow, investors must also adapt to be able to navigate the risks and seize the opportunities presented by a changing global landscape.
Find out more about Whisky 1901 at www.whisky1901.com.
*Disclaimer* – Whisky cask investments are unregulated in the UK. The value of investments is variable and can go down as well as up. An investor may get back less than the amount invested. Information on past performance, where given, is not necessarily a guide to future performance.
The capital invested can fluctuate and the price of casks can go down as well as up and is not guaranteed. The investments and services offered by Whisky 1901 may not be suitable for all investors. This is not tax advice, and investors should still seek professional advice regarding any tax-related investments.
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