Bowmore 12 yo, 40%

Introduction

Bowmore 12 Year Old stands as the cornerstone expression from Islay’s oldest licensed distillery, founded in 1779. This iconic single malt whisky embodies the perfect harmony between maritime influence and subtle peat smoke that has defined Bowmore’s distinctive character for over two centuries.

Production Method

• Raw materials: Scottish barley, some of which is malted on Bowmore’s traditional floor maltings, and pure spring water from the nearby Laggan River
• Distillation process: Double distillation in traditional copper pot stills with a relatively short fermentation period to preserve robust character
• Maturation: Aged for a minimum of 12 years in a combination of ex-bourbon American oak casks and Spanish sherry butts
• Special techniques: Maturation takes place in Bowmore’s legendary No. 1 Vaults, the oldest maturation warehouse in Scotland, located below sea level with the waves of Loch Indaal lapping at its walls

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Gentle peat smoke, followed by coastal sea air, honey sweetness, and subtle hints of lemon and heather
• Palate: Medium-bodied with dark chocolate, honey, and a distinctly balanced smokiness, complemented by notes of citrus peel and cinnamon spice
• Finish: Medium to long with lingering smokiness, sweet vanilla, and a subtle salt-sea influence

Recommended Serving

• Serving temperature: Room temperature (15-18°C)
• Glass recommendation: Tulip-shaped whisky glass or Glencairn glass
• Serving ideas: Best enjoyed neat or with a few drops of spring water to open up the aromas and flavors
• Food pairings: Smoked salmon, blue cheeses, dark chocolate, grilled seafood, and oysters

Product Specifications

• Alcohol content: 40% ABV
• Bottle size: 700ml / 750ml (market dependent)
• Country/Region of origin: Scotland, Islay
• Certifications/Awards: Gold Medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, 90 points from Whisky Advocate, Double Gold at the International Spirits Challenge

Summary

A Unique Tasting Experience

Bowmore 12 Year Old presents a rare equilibrium of peat smoke and maritime influence that few other whiskies can achieve. This is the result of Bowmore’s unique position as Islay’s oldest licensed distillery with over two centuries of whisky-making expertise.

With limited production compared to mainstream blended whiskies, each bottle represents a piece of Islay’s whisky heritage that cannot be replicated elsewhere.

Master blenders and whisky critics consistently recognize Bowmore 12 as the benchmark for balanced Islay malts, offering newcomers and connoisseurs alike a perfectly calibrated introduction to peated whisky.

Recognition from Connoisseurs

Whisky enthusiasts worldwide have made Bowmore 12 a cornerstone expression in their collections, appreciating its consistent quality and representative character of Islay terroir.

Many who begin their journey with Bowmore 12 find themselves committed to exploring the distillery’s entire range of expressions, testament to the undeniable quality of this gateway expression.

Critics consistently award Bowmore 12 top honors at international competitions, cementing its reputation as one of Scotland’s most reliable and satisfying single malt experiences.

From Bowmore Distillery to You

Bowmore offers this 12-year expression as the culmination of patience, tradition, and craftsmanship—a gift of time and expertise from master distillers who have dedicated their lives to perfecting this whisky.

The warmth and approachability of Bowmore 12 mirrors the hospitable spirit of Islay itself, creating an instant connection between drinker and the island’s rich heritage.

By choosing Bowmore 12, you join a community of discerning whisky drinkers who understand that true character in whisky comes from balance, not extremes—why not experience this legendary Islay malt today?