Bowmore 12

Bowmore 12
Picture: The Whisky Exchange


Bowmore was the first smoky Islay whisky I learned to love and still has a special place in my cabinet. 

Identity Card Bowmore 12

  • Official bottling from Bowmore Distillery (Islay)
  • 12-year-old single malt Scotch whisky
  • Alcohol: 40%  ABV

A southern sea breeze on a hot summer's night 

Tasting notes 

Colour: The 12-year-old Bowmore has a warm amber glow. It's a pity the colour comes from the notorious E in whisky: E150.

Nose: At first there's honey, lemon and (of course) peat smoke. Then a flowery scent with some eucalyptus. I'm also discovering, very distant but it's there, after eight biscuits with chocolate and mint. Water enhances the flowers and honey. There's a development of lavender and heather. And some slumbering marzipan.

Taste: On the tongue, there are oranges and again honey. Also some vanilla and freshly picked mint. Very subtle and soft maritime hints of coarse sea salt.

Finish: Soft and sweet peat smoke warms the mouth.

Conclusion: This 12-year-old Bowmore is a pleasant introduction to peaty whiskies. The peat is nicely balanced by the other flavours to make it accessible for newbie peatheads. Didn't even cost € 35 and is available in most supermarkets and liquor stores.


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