The Bowmore Distillery is one of Scotland’s oldest distilleries, having stood on the shores of Islay since 1779. It is one of the few distilleries that continues to hand turn its own floor malted barley, rather than outsourcing the chore.
Bowmore’s 12-Year-Old Scotch Whisky is the youngest of the age specified Bowmore lineup, which also includes 15- 18- and 25-year old expressions.
On the nose, the amber spirit is distinctively smoky, with hints of citrus and honeyed sweetness. The body is light, almost watery. On the palate, the peat smoke is very noticeable, and there’s a warm, subtle chocolate undertone. It finishes with more peat smoke, plus a hint of saltiness that’s more subdued than many Islay whiskies.
All in all, Bowmore 12 is a good whisky and a good introduction to Islay single malts. Plus, at the $40 price point, it’s a better value for your money, in my estimation, than the $90 Bowmore 18.
Stats:
– Aged 12 Years
– Islay Region
– 40% Alcohol by Volume
– $45
CE Rating: ★★★★
