This post initiates a new series of blog posts sharing my passion for whisk(e)y. I started to appreciate and discover the rich world of this aged liquor around 3 years ago and as I see other whisky fans on the Hive, I would like to share my experiences as well. In this post, I will put some light on the Bowmore 12 Years from Bowmore Distillery from Islay, Scotland.
About Bowmore distillery
Nestled in the heart of the Scottish island of Islay, Bowmore Distillery has been crafting exceptional single-malt Scotch whiskies since 1779. As one of the oldest distilleries on the island, Bowmore boasts a rich heritage, with its whiskies showcasing the quintessential peaty and smoky character that Islay is famous for.
The distillery is situated in the picturesque village of Bowmore, overlooking the serene Loch Indaal. Its time-honored production methods, such as the traditional floor malting process, contribute to the unique and complex flavors found in its whiskies. Bowmore's warehouses, the legendary No. 1 Vaults, are the oldest in Scotland, and the maturation process within these sea-facing, damp, and cool cellars imparts a distinct maritime influence to the spirits.
Bowmore offers a range of highly sought-after whiskies, from the accessible 12-year-old expression to the rare and collectible limited editions.
Source: islay.scot
Bowmore 12Y degustation note
Type: single malt scotch whisky
Age: 12 years
ABV: 40%
Color: amber
Nose: sweet and gently smoky, oakwood, smoke from the fire and the smokehouse, vanilla, peat, malt
Taste: spicy, initially oakwood, then smokehouse, leather, wet wood, peat, malt. Salty notes: oysters, salt. Earth notes: earth, peat. Sweet notes: honey, vanilla, citrus
Finish: long, initially smoky and spicy then gently sloping into oakwood and sweet notes
Additional notes: pretty complex malt form Islay. Well-hidden alcohol, despite everything being very smooth and drinkable.
My score: 83/100
Gallery
Summary
Definitely one of my favorites basics from Islay. Relatively cheap (ca 45 USD). Great starting point for peated whisky discovery journey as it stands far away from the Islay's smoking monters taste profiles.
I hope you enjoyed this degustation and overview. Stay tuned for more!