A Mythical Fusion: Bowmore® and the Legend of the Dragon
Leo Burnett Singapore and Beam Suntory have unveiled a limited edition bottle of Bowmore® Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky, a stunning mashup of Chinese legend with the skill of Scottish distillation. This launch, which happens to fall on the Year of the Dragon, is a storytelling masterpiece that captures a journey of perseverance and transformation. It’s more than simply a Lunar New Year celebration.
The Tale of Perseverance and Triumph
Sharim Gubbels, Leo Burnett Singapore’s Executive Creative Director, eloquently describes the essence of this initiative: “For this Year of the Dragon limited edition packaging, we wanted to tell the story of Bowmore’s journey to greatness through a legend deeply embedded in Chinese culture. Bowmore is a Scottish brand that is less known in Asia. However, we see parallels between the Chinese legend and Bowmore’s history, where a shared lesson emerges: that greatness belongs to those who persevere.”
The packaging is a marvel in itself, revealing a majestic dragon as it opens, symbolizing the end of a transformative journey, akin to Bowmore’s own evolution into a celebrated single malt scotch.
Bowmore’s Legacy: A Testament to Time
With over 240 years of rich history, Bowmore’s story is one of unwavering resilience and dedication. Since 1779, the distillery has been a custodian of traditional whisky-making, ensuring that each drop is a testament to centuries of refinement and craftsmanship.
Inspiration from Chinese Proverbs
The design inspiration stems from the ancient Chinese proverb, “鲤鱼跳龙门” (The carp has leaped through the Dragon’s Gate), symbolizing the triumph over adversity. This proverbial backdrop sets the stage for the packaging’s narrative, where the carp’s arduous journey and transformation into a dragon mirror Bowmore’s own path to excellence.
Artistic Brilliance: Kenn Lam’s Illustration
Singaporean illustrator Kenn Lam brings this transformation to life, capturing the pivotal moment of metamorphosis. The packaging, a canvas of his artistry, unfolds to reveal the Bowmore Single Malt, a visual and sensory delight.
Cultural Resonance: The Spring Couplet
Adding to the cultural depth, the packaging’s reverse side features a spring couplet, penned in contemporary Chinese calligraphy. This two-line poem further narrates the tale of the carp and the dragon, enriching the overall experience.
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Exclusive Offerings: A Collector’s Delight
The 2024 special edition, featuring the Core 15-Year-Old bottle (exclusive to Canada) and an 18-Year-Old bottle (available in select travel retail locations in Asia), is a collector’s dream. Following the success of the 2023 edition, which garnered accolades at various international award shows, this release is anticipated to be a coveted item for whiskey aficionados and cultural enthusiasts alike.
Bowmore®’s latest offering is more than just a whiskey; it’s a celebration of cultural narratives, artistic expression, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. As we approach the Lunar New Year, this special edition serves as a reminder of the power of perseverance and the beauty of transformation.
