Michael Jackson the whisky and beer author
Michael Jackson Blend review
December 10, 2014
English Whisky Co. logo
English Whisky Chapter 9 review
December 11, 2014
Michael Jackson the whisky and beer author
Michael Jackson Blend review
December 10, 2014
English Whisky Co. logo
English Whisky Chapter 9 review
December 11, 2014

Bowmore 12 year old review

Bowmore 12YO

Bowmore 12 year old single malt whisky review

One of THE USUAL SUSPECTS of smoke

Even with 40% ABV level, Bowmore 12 year old is one of the heavy hitters of smoke. Not as heavy as the 10 year old drams from Ardbeg or Laphroaig. But still, one of The Usual Suspects, when it comes to smoke whisky. I already knew the reputation of Bowmore, before I got the chance to even try one, so I kinda knew what was coming. This 12 year old expression has been matured in a combination of bourbon and sherry casks.

And the same thing happened with the movie The Usual Suspects. Even though it is a great movie with a nice plot twist before the end. For me, it became a bit predictable because I had heard about the possible plot twists from my friends. They were kind enough not to spoil it, but still, I knew something exciting was coming, Automatically you start to look for any twists from every corner.

Both, Bowmore 12YO and The Usual Suspects are good examples of their genres. They start pretty delicate, wait for a big finish and get you off guard. Giving you sweet spots in the center of roughness. Because of the likes of Lagavulin or Ardbeg, I have neglected Bowmore – I really have to start trying more of their products!

Blogger called Scotch Hobbyist has a great definition of Bowmore 12YO single malt whisky:

“Sometimes it strikes me as Dalmore’s pipe-smoking cousin, and other times as Talisker exploring its feminine side.”

Matured in:
Ex-Bourbon and Ex-Sherry casks
ABV: 40%
Colour: Sunlight
Nose: Very pleasant and sweet nose: citrus fruits, with oranges being the main factor. Heavy peat with subtle smoke. Floral notes are present as well.
Taste: Again, the smoke is subtle. Nicely warming honey and coastal elements. Peat is dark. Blossom and oily sweetness.
Finish: In the finish, the smoke starts dominating. Dry with ashes and hints of citrus. Very long and lingering.
Balance: Starts as a sophisticated dram, turning into intensive smoke. Rich and consistent whisky.

Scoring

87
Nose:Taste:Finish:Balance:
23
21
22
21
Distillery: Bowmore Region: Islay

Bowmore 12YO review

Johannes Lindblom
Johannes Lindblom
Finnish whisky enthusiast and the author of WhiskyRant! A digital marketing professional by day – a whisky reviewer and informer by night.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *