Bowmore 14 Year Old 2000 Malts of Scotland

Malts of Scotland, the German independent bottler, has almost 20 casks on its resumé of this Islay distillery. And it has to be said: the majority of those are absolute gems. So when I saw this bottling on the shelves, I knew I had to hurry to try it. Despite the fact that it is a sherry hogshead, it is rather pale. Refill? In the case of Bowmore, that does not have to be a bad thing. Au contraire!

Oh, my! Party time! Great nose. Allow me to explain. Leather, praliné, walnuts, hints of diesel (I kid you not!), artichoke (that’s a first!) and a single drop of balsamico. The fruit plays second fiddle, although it does give it its best shot. I would say apricots, peach and hint of sultanas. Have you ever smelled walnut liqueur? This comes close.

The body is surprisingly light and the arrival equally surprisingly soft. I had expected a kick to the teeth because of the high ABV, but that does not happen at all. Huh? Wonderfully sweet, though, with a sour touch. Think honey and fruit left, while smoked fis hand peat right. Arbroath Smokies, anyone? I think this would go very well with that. Does not need water at all, so I will not even risk it.

Fairly short finish, I think. Darn, that is a pity, for it is very good. Do I get some mustard seed at the death?

Again a wonderful Bowmore. Just under 100 EUR.

Find where to buy Bowmore whisky