Bowmore – Batch 1, That Boutique-y Whisky Company. 48.7%. No Age Statement. Golden colour with an unmistakable kick of sherry and peat on the nose. This may not be immediately detectable as a Bowmore, however it’s most definitely an Islay dram through and through but there’s increased phenolic notes that some distillery bottlings of Bowmore’s don’t always have.

A good costal note that could come from further south on the island! Dried fruits soon make an appearance, dried apple, dates and plump raisins.

The nose and palate benefit from the craft presentation here giving a fuller experience than you don’t often get with a distillery bottled Bowmore.

The mouth feel is nicely oily and perfectly balanced at the ABV for drinking directly with no water. Great peaty notes mixing perfectly with costal fruitiness with a slightly chalky (in a good way) note that keeps it dry enough to not overwhelm you. The finish is long and spicy leaving you wanting more.

I’ve been saying for a while now that the profile of Bowmore needs to be increased, and this is a perfect example why, because it’s a quality dram where the chill-filtration and colouring is removed.

A perfect balance of peat and light sherry notes.