Bowmore 12 Year Old Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky
Experience the perfect balance of coastal smoke and rich sweetness with Bowmore 12 Year Old, the heart of the legendary Islay distillery's core range.This is the benchmark expression for Bowmore, a complex and rewarding single malt that has been celebrated by whisky lovers for decades. Matured in a combination of ex-bourbon and sherry oak casks within the famed No. 1 Vaults, it is a true taste of Islay's wild spirit and timeless craftsmanship. Discover this iconic Scotch through our preferred online retail partner, Nestor Liquor.
For over 240 years, Bowmore has been capturing the essence of its island home. The 12 Year Old expression is a masterful symphony of flavors—waves of subtle peat smoke and sea salt are beautifully interwoven with notes of citrus and honey from the casks. It’s the perfect introduction to the world of peated Islay malts and a beloved staple for seasoned connoisseurs.
Key Specifications:
Product: Bowmore 12 Year Old Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky
Mashbill: 100% Malted Barley
Proof | ABV: 80 Proof | 40% ABV
Age: 12 Years
Cask Maturation: A combination of ex-Bourbon and ex-Sherry Oak Casks
Distillery: Bowmore Distillery, Islay, Scotland
Brand History: The Original Islay Distillery
Established in 1779, Bowmore is the first recorded distillery on the Isle of Islay and one of the oldest in all of Scotland. Its whitewashed walls sit on the shores of Loch Indaal, constantly battered by the Atlantic winds. The distillery is home to the legendary No. 1 Vaults, the oldest maturation warehouse in Scotland, which extends below sea level. This unique, cool, and damp environment is the perfect place to patiently mature whisky, allowing it to breathe in the salty sea air and develop the signature coastal character for which Bowmore is renowned.
Tasting Notes: A Symphony of Smoke and Fruit
Bowmore 12 Year Old is celebrated for its remarkable balance and complexity:
Nose: A beautiful and subtle bouquet. Expect aromas of fresh lemon and sweet heather honey, perfectly balanced by Bowmore's signature peaty, campfire smoke.
Palate: A warm and delicious palate with a wonderful mouthfeel. Notes of rich dark chocolate and gentle peat smoke emerge, beautifully complemented by the sweetness of vanilla and a hint of citrus from the oak casks.
Finish: The finish is long, mellow, and satisfying. The gentle peat smoke lingers beautifully, leaving a final, sophisticated whisper of the sea.
Why Bowmore 12 Year is a Must-Have:
The Perfect Islay Introduction: Offers a beautifully balanced profile of moderate peat smoke, making it an accessible yet deeply complex entry point to the whiskies of Islay.
A Symphony of Flavors: Masterfully weaves together notes of smoke, chocolate, citrus, and honey, showcasing the influence of both the Islay environment and its dual-cask maturation.
Matured in the Legendary No. 1 Vaults: Aged in one of the most famous and historic warehouses in the world, giving it a truly unique maritime character.
Over 240 Years of Heritage: Owning a bottle of Bowmore is owning a piece of Scotch whisky history from one of its most iconic distilleries.
This is a whisky that is both a timeless classic and a captivating experience. Contact Nestor Liquor today to add the essential Bowmore 12 Year Old to your collection.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: How smoky is Bowmore 12 Year?
A: Bowmore 12 Year is considered a moderately peated Islay malt. The smoke is often described as a gentle "bonfire" or "campfire" smoke, rather than the more intense, medicinal peat found in some other Islay whiskies like Laphroaig or Ardbeg.
Q: Is this whisky aged only in Sherry Oak?
A: No, Bowmore 12 Year is matured in a combination of both ex-bourbon and ex-sherry oak casks. This dual maturation is key to its balanced profile, with the bourbon casks providing notes of vanilla and honey, and the sherry casks adding a layer of rich fruit and subtle spice.
Q: What is the significance of the No. 1 Vaults?
A: The No. 1 Vaults at Bowmore are the oldest maturation warehouses in Scotland and sit below sea level. The cool, damp, and salty environment provides a slow, steady maturation process, allowing the whisky to develop its signature coastal and maritime notes over time.
Q: How should I drink Bowmore 12 Year?
A: To fully appreciate its complex layers of flavor, it is best enjoyed neat or with a few drops of spring water. A single large ice cube can also work well.
Q: Where can I purchase Bowmore 12 Year Old?
A: This is a flagship, widely available single malt. We recommend checking with our preferred retail partner, Nestor Liquor, for their inventory.
