Bowmore 15 Year Old was matured initially in bourbon casks before a finishing period in oloroso sherry casks. It balances the distillery's signature coastal peat with layers of dark fruit, spice, chocolate, and warming oak. Rich enough for peat lovers but refined enough to pull in people who normally avoid Islay altogether.
A spiced, fruity nose with notes of prunes, sherried peels, a little sultana flavour, cinnamon and nutmeg. It develops on milky coffee and dark chocolate.
A rich, oaky palate with wood resin and creamy toffee. Hints of plum wine, damsons, black pepper, soft wood-smoke and chocolate malt.
Long, spiced finish with buttery toffee and malt.
I found this Whiskey had a very strong smoky odor which for me was quite a rough and unpleasant taste. Dilution with water does mellow it slightly but this was not to my taste.
I had this neat with ice, it has a light colour with a small hint of cherry to smell. It has a spicy flavour which is powerful on the palate also has a sliyoaky undertone, the taste does not linger and quickly disappears.
Smells sweet and Smokey in my glass with a little ice. Tasted on the bitter side but Smooth as it went down. Not sure I would add this to my favourites
Beautifully produced. Flavour is a little sweeter and less medicinal than a traditionally crafted malts from Islay. But than means you can drink this without water if to your taste - I always add 2/3 water and it is fabulously smooth either way. The hint of honey and sherry sweetness is lovely in equal measures also. Not my favourite due to lack of peatiness but a definitely strong alternative.
One of the more skillfully distilled Islays I've tried - a truly artful blend that hits you up front with honey and sherry sweetness, but never let's you forget its peaty origins. Yet the balance is perfect - not too much of the one or the other, just smooth perfection.
