Although we never get enough of the recent wave of Bowmore releases, this one arrived exactly when I just published two or three others. So I postponed it a little. Anyway this Bowmore 18 Year Old gets the title Gentle Giant, because Stefan from Passion for Whisky is tall and looks a bit like a gentle giant. He chose this cask to celebrate his anniversary.
Bowmore 18 yo 2007 (50,3%, Boogieman Whisky Society 2026, bourbon hogshead, 90 btl.)
Nose: fresh and maritime, with kelp and crushed shells, wet gravel, minty notes and lots of bright citrus. Lemon juice and candied lemon peels, brine, maybe light peach as well. Not very peaty, there’s just a light hint of tarry rope in the distance.
Mouth: more smoky now, along with peppermint, more seaweed and drying mineral notes. Mid-palate a short flash of green mango and passion fruit appears, something we’re always hoping for. Then also wet wool, more saltiness and lots of cold ashes. Subtle hints of grassy herbs and light resin too.
Finish: long and coastal, on warming ashes, black pepper, mild liquorice and this lovely citrusy note.
A very coastal whisky, with peat in a supporting act. The tart (tropical) fruits come out nicely as well. Excellent selection and Happy 50, Stefan! Already sold out at Passion for Whisky.