A comparatively recent release from Bowmore, the 18 year old was launched in January of 2007 to replace the 17 year old. A perfumed, fruity offering from the Islay distillery.
Pungent, citrus. Stewing fruit, hints of damp wood and a very soft smoke.
Spirity at first, then gives way to perfume, fruit, plum jam. A good sweetness, peat smoke, grapey.
Seville marmalade, blossom, dark peat.
I would compare this very close to the lagavulin 16, absolutely brilliant and beautifully balanced from whiff to end, a good friend of mine and myself destroyed a bottle of this in 1 night, it was amazing having begged "perhaps closer to the floor" for more.
First Islay I ever tasted and like I said not for me. Smells and taste like a sauna is what I compare this to.
It has the good things I like of the heavier Islay scotches, and the things I like about the Glens in one package
I like the 12 year and this tastes kinda like it, more smothiness through. Worth the extra money? hm.. that's up to you! If you want something extra for a holiday and like the 12-year I recommend this for you.
Many of my recent peak life experiences have been celebrated with the Bowmore 18. I'd have to say that it is my all-time favorite alcoholic beverage. Try it as part of a "whisky flight", starting with Bowmore 15, then the 18, and finally moving on to something dry like Ardbeg Corryvreckan. The experience is very different compared to tasting each individually. The flavors that develop will just blow you away!
