Bowmore 12 Year Old Whisky

Distillery Background and History

Bowmore, founded in 1779 on the shores of Loch Indaal on the Isle of Islay, is one of the oldest continuously operating distilleries in Scotland and the oldest on Islay. It has long been celebrated for its balance of peat smoke, maritime character, and refined sweetness. Today it is owned by Morrison Bowmore Distillers, a part of Suntory Global Spirits. 

Master Distiller and Production Philosophy

While the brand does not always prominently highlight a single “Master Distiller,” Bowmore’s blending and maturation teams focus on balancing peat, fruit, and sherry/oak influences. The production philosophy emphasizes meticulous cask selection, subtle peat integration, and a maturation style that lets both smoky and delicate notes harmonize. 

Source of Ingredients (Grain, Water, Yeast)

Bowmore uses malted barley (some locally sourced, supplemented from mainland Scotland) and draws water from local sources on Islay, contributing to its coastal and briny influence. Yeast strains are proprietary and not publicly disclosed. 

Distillation Process

The distillery employs copper pot stills (two wash stills and two spirit stills). Its malt is traditionally floor-malted and dried with a controlled peat influence. The cuts of distillate are managed to preserve balance between smoke and sweetness. 

Maturation & Cask Information

Bowmore 12 Year Old is matured in a mix of ex-bourbon casks and Oloroso sherry-seasoned casks, with a finishing influence from Oloroso casks to add depth and richness. 

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Subtle lemon, honey, vanilla, gentle peat smoke, light sea breeze and malt sweetness. 

• Palate: Heather honey, citrus notes (lemon, orange), gentle peat, soft oak, some tropical fruit undertones. 

• Finish: Medium to long, with smoky edge, sweet spice, lingering peat and citrus. 

Food Pairing Suggestions

Go with smoked salmon, grilled scallops, blue cheeses, dark chocolate, roasted nuts, or citrus-glazed pork — foods that complement smoke, sweet, and briny tones.

Serving Suggestions and Ideal Glassware

Serve neat or with a few drops of water to open aroma. Use a Glencairn glass or tulip whisky glass. Best enjoyed around 18–20 °C.

Storage and Aging Potential

Once bottled it is stable. Store upright in a cool, dark place. As a 12-year expression, it is meant to be enjoyed now; additional bottle aging brings only very subtle mellowing over many years.

Grain Type & Mash Bill (if applicable)

It is a single malt Scotch whisky (100% malted barley).

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

40 % ABV