BOWMORE 12 Year Old
Crafted with utmost care on the shores of Islay, Scotland, Bowmore 12 Year Old is a testament to tradition and expertise. Whether you’re a seasoned whisky connoisseur or an enthusiastic newcomer, Bowmore 12 Year Old Whisky will captivate your senses and leave a lasting impression. Indulge in the wonders of this remarkable whisky and embark on a journey that will transport you to the rugged beauty of Scotch whisky with every sip.
History and origin
It is unknown when exactly the Bowmore distillery began operating. The first recorded mention of Bowmore was in 1779, but local knowledge suggests it had been operating for almost ten years by then. Despite changing owners several times throughout the 19th century, Bowmore continued to produce exceptional whiskies that became so famous, it even drew the attention of Queen Elizabeth II.
What is Bowmore Whisky?
With a history of over 240 years, Bowmore is Islay’s oldest licensed whisky distillery and the second oldest in Scotland. All Bowmore whiskies are made with the same traditional process and vintage equipment, such as a 1960s mill and 1940s copper kettles, guaranteeing the same flavour that Scotch enthusiasts know and love.
Is Bowmore 12 smoky?
Yes, Bowmore 12 Year Old Islay is known for its smoky character. It is produced by smoking malted barley over a peat fire, resulting in the signature smoky flavour in the Bowmore whisky.
What is Bowmore 12 aged in?
Bowmore uses a mix of former American Oak Bourbon barrels and former Spanish Sherry casks to age their whiskies, as used casks are more suited to single malt Scotch whisky than brand-new casks. Bowmore 12 Year Old is also aged in the famous No.1 Vaults, where the Islay sea air is gradually absorbed into the barrels and interacts with the whisky within them.
How long is Bowmore aged?
Bowmore whiskies are aged for a minimum of nine years, three times longer than the minimum 3-year ageing period for Scotch whiskies. Even then, certain Bowmore whiskies are aged longer to improve their quality. For example, Bowmore 12 is aged for 12 years.
What makes Islay whisky different?
Islay whiskies are known for using locally-sourced ingredients such as Islay peat moss and Islay spring water with high mineral content. They are also produced in distilleries close to the Scottish seas, allowing the sea breeze to mix with the whiskies as they age. All these things give whiskies like the Bowmore Islay Single Malt 12 Years Old a distinct smoky flavour and salty tang that whisky enthusiasts consider great selling points.
Tasting notes
Bowmore 12 Year Old has subtle aromas of lemon and honey that are balanced out by the trademark peaty smokiness of Islay whiskies. It also contains notes of muted dark chocolate, sea spray, and vanilla with a smoky, mellow finish.
How do you drink Bowmore 12 Year Old Whisky?
There is no definitive recommendation for serving whisky, but the most common method to enjoy the Bowmore 12 Year Old Islay is serving it straight at room temperature. Another way is to add a few drops of water to the Bowmore scotch, and it will lightly dilute the drink and allow you to experience the whisky’s subtle flavour.
Adding ice to Scotch whiskies like the Bowmore 12 is discouraged, as the ice might dilute the whisky too much and ruin its flavours. Instead, whisky lovers are advised to chill their drink with special whisky rocks, which won’t dilute the whisky or leave an aftertaste.
Lastly, the Bowmore 12 Year Old Whisky would make an excellent choice for exotic cocktails and mixed drinks. Mixing it with club soda or ginger ale can bring out its rich smoky flavours and sweet taste.
Food pairings
Dark chocolate, seafood and smoked or grilled meats can complement the Bowmore 12 Year Old’s smokiness wonderfully. Spicy food is also an excellent choice, as Scotch whiskies contain peat notes that go well with a variety of spices. Alternatively, Bowmore 12 can be paired with a cheese platter as well, as its smoky flavour will balance out the creamy cheeses while also complementing sharp cheeses with its spice notes.
Notable awards
- Gold Award, 2017 International Spirit Challenge
- Gold Award, 2018 San Francisco World Spirits Competition
Toast to extraordinary moments with Bowmore 12 Year Old Islay
Whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in a classic whisky cocktail, Bowmore 12 Year Old never fails to impress with its depth of character and remarkable smoothness. Buy a bottle and experience the allure of this extraordinary single malt now!
