Last Updated on: 11th June 2024, 01:03 am
J Highland
J Highland is a certified sommelier with 30 years in the liquor industry, owning a pub, a liquor store, and moonlighting as a spirits distiller.
Discover everything about Bowmore 12 in this in-depth review that answers all your related questions!
Reviewed by: J Highland
Bowmore 12: Gateway to Islay Smoke with Smooth Enjoyment
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐
The Bowmore 12 year old single malt Scotch offers a delightful introduction to the world of Islay whiskies, known for their signature smoky character.
Strengths:
- Smooth and Approachable: Free from harshness or off-putting flavors, the Bowmore 12 provides a welcoming dram for those curious about smoky whiskies.
- Subtly Smoky: Offers a pleasant, restrained smokiness that is intriguing without being overwhelming.
- Great Introductory Islay: This Bowmore serves as a perfect stepping stone for those wanting to explore more intense Islay whiskies like Ardbeg 10 or Laphroaig 10.
- Balanced and Satisfying: The Bowmore 12 delivers a well-rounded journey from nose to finish, ensuring a pleasant drinking experience.
Possible Weaknesses:
- Lower Proof: The 40% ABV might make it feel a bit lighter or thinner on the palate compared to higher proof whiskies.
- Less Complex Flavor Profile: Experienced whisky drinkers might find the Bowmore 12 a bit one-dimensional in terms of flavor complexity.
Verdict:
The Bowmore 12 year old is a solid choice for those seeking a smooth and approachable introduction to smoky whiskies.
Its balanced profile free from harshness makes it a great starting point before venturing into more robust Islay expressions.
While the lower proof might affect some palates, the overall experience is pleasant and satisfying.
If complexity isn’t your top priority but you’re curious about Islay smoke, then Bowmore 12 is a reliable and enjoyable option, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.
- Related: Top Rated Smoky Whisky List
- Learn more: Bowmore 12 Website
Tasting Notes
- Nose: Smoke, pineapple, orange
- Palate: Ripe fruit, honey, vanilla, iodine
- Finish: Short, smoke, mineral, charred oak
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Neat
- Similar to: Lagavulin 16
- Smoke level: 😮💨😮💨
The nose of Bowmore 12 hits with a smoky note derived from the peat used in drying the malted barley.
Subtle hints of pineapple and citrus follow.
Upon tasting, the medium-bodied Bowmore 12 provides a satisfying mouthfeel.
The initial sip reveals flavors of ripe fruit and honey, complemented by vanilla and a touch of characteristic Islay Whisky iodine, with a subtle presence of smoke.
The finish is relatively short, with a delicate smoky note, a mineral undertone, and hints of charred oak from the bourbon barrels used during aging.
Bowmore 12 FAQ
Is it smoky?
- Mild Smokiness: Bowmore features a gentle smoky touch, ideal for those who prefer a softer Islay whisky experience.
- Reduced Peat Usage: It uses only half the peat amount for drying malted barley compared to other Islay whiskies, leading to a subtler smoky flavor.
- Smokiness Comparison: While Bowmore is slightly smokier than Johnnie Walker Black Label, it is much less intense than the robust smoky notes found in whiskies like Ardbeg 10.
Alternatives
- Johnnie Walker Black Label offers a moderately smoky blend at a lower price point.
- For similar peaty Islay malts, explore Caol Ila 12 or Oban 14.
How to drink
- Traditionally enjoyed neat, but a splash of water can enhance sweetness.
- Not recommended for mixed drinks due to its subtle character.
Single Malt Scotch Whisky:
- Made exclusively with malted barley at the Bowmore distillery in Islay, Scotland.
- Water from the Laggan River is used in the mashing and fermentation process.
Aging:
- Matured for 12 years in the distillery’s seaside maturation vaults, which may contribute subtle sea air notes to the whisky.
Alcohol content:
- Bottled at 40% ABV (80 proof), the minimum allowed for Scotch Whisky.
Accolades:
- Awarded Gold at the 2018 San Francisco World Spirits Competition.
About Bowmore Distillery:
- Established in 1779, the first distillery on Islay.
- Known for its Islay malts with a more restrained smokiness compared to other Islay whiskies.
- Owned by Beam Suntory, a large drinks company.
Does Bowmore 12 expire?
- Proper storage ensures longevity, but consume the remaining 25% sooner to avoid flavor changes.
How did I review Bowmore 12?
I run a pub and a liquor store, granting me extensive access to various spirits, in addition, I moonlight as a spirits distiller.
My evaluations include my insights and feedback from customers and patrons and whiskey expert opinions from Neil Coleman who has been for decades in the liquor business.
I also corroborate my views with online research to ensure accuracy.
Our ratings are determined primarily by four key factors: aroma, taste, finish, and value for money. While we do consider packaging, it is of lesser importance to us, as we prioritize the quality of the liquid inside over the aesthetics of the bottle.
⭐ – Poor, ⭐⭐ – Average, ⭐⭐⭐ – Good, ⭐⭐⭐⭐ – Very Good, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ – Excellent.
Bowmore 12: Specs
| Type of Whisky | Single Malt |
| Age statement | 12 Years |
| Proof | 80 |
| ABV | 40% |
| Is it good? | OK |
| Is it top-shelf? | No |
| Does it expire? | No |
| Sweet? | Moderately |
| Warm? | No |
| Peaty? | A bit |
| Good for beginners? | No |
| Good for cocktails? | No |
| Good with Coke? | No |
| Calories per shot | 108 |
| Gluten-free | Yes |
| Keto-friendly | Yes |
| Kosher | Yes |