First Impressions
Bowmore — Islay's oldest distillery, established 1779 — produces a whisky that sits between the peat monsters (Ardbeg, Laphroaig) and the gentle Islays (Bunnahabhain, Bruichladdich). The 12 Year Old achieves remarkable balance between smoke and sweetness.
Tasting
The nose is mild smoke with bergamot and lemon blossoms. On the palate at 40%, richly smoked with honey and coastal elements. The finish is long with dominating smoke and citrus.
The Verdict
Bowmore 12 earns a 7 — the balanced Islay. Not extreme, but distinctly smoky. One of the best entry-level single malts. At £35, Islay's oldest distillery at its most accessible.
