The Bowmore 42 Years Old 1964–2007 Black Bowmore – The Trilogy is widely regarded as one of the most iconic and sought-after single malt Scotch whiskies ever released. With only 827 bottles produced worldwide, this expression represents the pinnacle of Bowmore’s historic craftsmanship and is a true grail bottle for serious collectors.
A legendary 1964 vintage
Distilled in 1964 at the Bowmore Distillery on Islay, this whisky matured for an extraordinary 42 years before being bottled in 2007. The 1960s are often referred to as Bowmore’s golden era, a period celebrated for traditional production methods, exceptional cask quality, and long, patient maturation.
The whisky’s famously deep, almost black colour gave rise to the name “Black Bowmore”, a result of extended maturation in high-quality sherry casks that profoundly shaped its character.
The Black Bowmore Trilogy
This 42-year-old release is the final chapter of the legendary Black Bowmore Trilogy, following:
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Black Bowmore 29 Years Old
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Black Bowmore 30 Years Old
Among enthusiasts, the 42-year-old is often considered the most refined and complex expression of the series.
Tasting notes
While each bottle has its own subtle variations, the whisky is typically described as follows:
Nose
Rich aromas of aged sherry, dried fruits, dark chocolate, polished leather, gentle peat smoke, and coastal maritime notes.
Palate
Silky and deeply layered. Notes of raisins, figs, espresso, bitter chocolate, and a beautifully integrated peat smoke that never overwhelms.
Finish
Exceptionally long and elegant, with lingering sherry sweetness, soft smoke, and a dry, refined oak character.
Specifications
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Distillery: Bowmore
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Region: Islay, Scotland
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Age: 42 years
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Vintage: 1964
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Bottled: 2007
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ABV: 40.5%
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Outturn: 1 of 827 bottles
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Series: Black Bowmore – The Trilogy
Collectability and investment value
The Bowmore Black Bowmore 42 Years Old is considered a true blue-chip whisky. Its extremely limited release, historical significance, and consistent demand at major auction houses have made it one of the most respected investment-grade single malts in the world.
Final thoughts
The Bowmore 42 Years Old 1964–2007 Black Bowmore is far more than a whisky; it is a liquid testament to a bygone era of Scotch whisky production. An extraordinary collector’s piece that perfectly captures the depth, elegance, and heritage of classic Islay whisky.
