Suntory Global Spirits introduces The Essence of Islay, the Bowmore 11-Year-Old travel exclusive

Bowmore, Islay’s oldest licensed distillery, has unveiled the latest addition to its portfolio, the refined Bowmore 11-Year-Old, available exclusively for travel retail. This new release combines the classic Bowmore style with the much-loved profile of a sherry finished whisky.

Crafted with intent since 1779, Bowmore shapes every drop of its captivating single malt Scotch whisky, adding depth and distinction of flavor to create a whisky that captures every sense.

With its layers of infinite flavor, a truly expressive character is revealed, crafted over time as it ages.

Bowmore 11-Year-Old is matured in ex-bourbon and Spanish oak sherry casks, offering an exceptionally expressive whisky; rich and fruity, with a smoldering complexity and a sherry finish. It captures the exceptionally expressive signature style, showcasing smoke and dark chocolate notes, underscored by walnut brittle and fresh sourdough bread, with sweet layers of red berry, bright citrus creaminess and lingering hints of pine resin.

Gareth Jones, Suntory Global Spirits General Manager, GTR Europe and Americas, describes Bowmore 11-Year-Old as embodying the essence of Islay, the southernmost island of the Inner Hebrides, off the west coast of Scotland.

Jones says, “With today’s travelling consumer searching for elevated innovations, paired with strong legacy, this exclusive expression is perfect for travel retail. It pays homage to Islay’s distinctive and layered terroir, from its dramatic coastline to peat-rich moors and heather-clad hillside, offering a taste of the unique Bowmore spirit in every drop.”

Kirsteen Beeston, Global Marketing Director, Bowmore, adds, “We expect Bowmore 11-Year-Old to quickly attract the attention of both travel retailers and consumers. There is growth globally in luxury spirit brands and this new expression successfully bridges the Scotch portfolio gap between the non-age statement and single malt category entry point.”

This latest release follows the roll-out of the travel retail-exclusive Bowmore Appellations, a collection of wine-finished single malts, with consumer experiences in key airport locations around the world, including London Heathrow and Singapore Changi.

Jones continues, “Travel retail serves as a vital stage for our global brands, and I’m delighted we can provide our retail partners with such an outstanding new Bowmore expression. Bowmore 11-Year-Old reflects our dedication to building a world-class premium portfolio, elevating the whisky category and enhancing the airport shopping experience.”

The Bowmore 11-Year-Old (ABV 40%) will be available exclusively in global travel retail locations from October 2025 (RRSP US$55).

Bowmore 11-Year-Old Profile

Color: Warm Amber

Aroma: Sweet lemon tuile and walnut brittle with dried red fruits, while hints of liquorice root complement fresh-baked sourdough and earthy smoke.

Palate: Bright notes of candied lemon and fresh mango dance with cracked peppercorns and dark chocolate. Pine resin leads to waves of intense, characterful peat smoke.

Finish: A sophisticated interplay of lingering campfire smoke, velvety lemon cream, and aromatic pine.