1st Jul, 2026 10:00
Whisky | Elegance & Luxury
BLACK BOWMORE 1964 1ST EDITION
ISLAY SINGLE MALT
Distilled: 1964
Bottled: 1993
Matured in Oloroso sherry wood
Bottle Number: 843 / 2000
50% ABV / 70cl
Sat on the picturesque shore of Loch Indaal, Bowmore is a distillery steeped in mythology and legend, ranging from tales of Sea Dragons and Devils in churches to, er, seagulls. Making use of Islay’s abundant peat, Bowmore whisky can be smoky and briny, but it distinguishes itself from its contemporaries with notes of tropical fruit and Parma Violets.
Most famous among whisky auction regulars are its outstanding “Black” releases. These 1964 vintage sherry bombs were available for a snip when they made their debut in the early 1990s, but are now capable of commanding five figure sums at auction.
A condition report is offered as an indication of any issues visible to the naked eye. As none of our staff is a professional conservator or restorer, buyers must satisfy themselves in respect of condition. The condition report does not form part of any contract between McTear's and the buyer, and all lots are offered "as is" in accordance with our Terms of Business available on our website.
£7,000 - £10,000
Buyer's premium: 24.00%
Condition Report
Good fill level into the neck. The sliding door for the wooden box is slightly warped, making it to open and close. The wax rosette is slightly damage and detached. Wax seall is in excellent condition, with no cracks or chips.
Live bidding through our website
When the auction is underway, you can bid live on this lot through our website. To bid live, you must be registered and signed in to our website, and have a valid credit or debit card registered on your account.
Leaving a bid prior to the auction
You can leave a bid prior to the auction day - this is called a 'commission' or 'absentee' bid. Prior to the auction, you can place your bid through our website (you'll need to be registered and signed in to do this). When you leave your bid, you enter the maximum amount you're willing to pay - the auctioneer will bid on your behalf etc. etc. For further advice contact our team on 0141 810 2880 or email [email protected]. You can also find out more information about bidding on our 'Buying with McTear's' page.
In person
You can, of course, bid in person at our auction room when the sale is underway. Come along to our auction room on the day of our sale, and register for a paddle number - if it's your first time bidding our staff will be able to answer any questions for you on the day. For further advice contact our team on 0141 810 2880 or email [email protected]. You can also find out more information about bidding on our 'Buying with McTear's' page.
By telephone
If you prefer to bid by telephone, we will call you during the auction and bid on your behalf to your instructions. To arrange telephone bids, please contact us at least 24 hours prior to the auction.
Auction: Whisky | Elegance & Luxury, 1st Jul, 2026
This eclectic collection of rare whisky features two opulent expressions from Macallan, each presented in bespoke Lalique crystal decanters, as well as the wonderfully quirky Peter Blake 8 Decades Collection. Other iconic drams include a first edition Black Bowmore 1964, and a Springbank 1966 Local Barley.
Entries are now invited for our August 12th whisky auction.
For a complimentary, no-obligation valuation, make an appointment to visit our Glasgow Galleries, or contact our specialists by clicking this link and completing the short form.
Viewing
Tuesday 30th - 9am-4pm
Wednesday 1st - 9am-10am
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