Bowmore Launches Two New Captivo Single Malt Whiskies
The Islay distillery introduces 20-year-old whiskies featuring bottle designs by Snarkitecture.
Updated on Oct. 16, 2026 in Cocktails
In August 2026, Bowmore released two 20-year-old single malt whiskies, Captivo Sherry Cask Pursuit and Captivo Oak Voyage. The releases represent a collaboration with design firm Snarkitecture to create unique sensory-inspired packaging.
Why it matters
The partnership highlights an experimental approach to object design that draws inspiration from the distillerys historic No. 1 Vaults. This project combines traditional Scotch whisky craftsmanship with modern, abstract design aesthetics.
The new whiskies are aged for 20 years, with the Captivo Oak Voyage finished in American oak Oloroso sherry seasoned butts. Bowmore, the oldest licensed distillery on Islay, has been in operation for 250 years.
The players
Bowmore
This Islay-based institution is the oldest licensed distillery in Scotland.
Snarkitecture
Based in New York City, this design firm focuses on experimental projects and object creation.
Neil Donnelly Studio
Located in Brooklyn, this design studio specializes in typography and visual communications.
The details
Snarkitecture designed the packaging with a biomorphic shape and organic concentric imagery to represent a sensory portal. The visual identity was further developed with a custom font created by the Brooklyn-based Neil Donnelly Studio.
Timeline
August 2026: Bowmore announced the two new 20-year-old single malt whisky releases.
250 years: The total duration of operations for the Bowmore distillery on Islay.
Culture Shift
This release follows a growing pattern of distillers collaborating with high-end design firms to elevate the presentation of aged spirits. The move signals a broader trend where luxury brands increasingly rely on experimental design to redefine traditional product categories.
Consumers in the United States can specifically look for the Captivo Oak Voyage in retail stores. Global travelers will find the Captivo Sherry Cask Pursuit exclusively available through international travel retail channels.
The takeaway
These releases reflect a shift toward treating whisky packaging as an extension of the sensory tasting experience. Collectors should note the distinction between the travel retail exclusive and the U.S. market offering when planning potential acquisitions.
Further reading
Explore the latest trends in the spirit industry on the Cocktails section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by SURFACE.
