Bowmore 12 Year Old (Bottled in 2000) 1 litre
Bowmore 12 Years Old Glass Printed Label 1 Liter 43%: A Classic Whisky Experience
Bowmore Distillery, nestled on the scenic Isle of Islay in Scotland, has long been revered for its exceptional whiskies. Among its renowned expressions is the Bowmore 12 Years Old, which stands as a testament to the distillery's rich heritage and dedication to crafting remarkable spirits. This particular bottling, featuring a glass printed label, is a classic rendition of the Bowmore 12 Years Old, bottled in the year 2000 at 43% ABV. Let's delve into the intriguing qualities and tasting experience of this beloved whisky.
A Journey into Bowmore's Legacy
Bowmore Distillery boasts a history that stretches back over two centuries. Its location on the rugged shores of Islay, surrounded by the wild Atlantic Ocean, infuses its whiskies with a distinctive character. The Bowmore 12 Years Old represents a harmonious balance of tradition, innovation, and expertise, making it a favorite choice among whisky enthusiasts.
The Glass Printed Label and Distinctive Design
The Bowmore 12 Years Old Glass Printed Label features an elegant and eye-catching design. The label, meticulously crafted with glass printing techniques, showcases the iconic Bowmore logo, distillery name, and age statement. This attention to detail and sophisticated presentation adds to the allure and collectability of this particular bottling.
The Aging Process and Flavor Profile
This expression of Bowmore 12 Years Old has spent over a decade maturing in oak casks, allowing the whisky to develop a complex array of flavors. On the nose, expect a gentle waft of smoky peat, accompanied by notes of ripe fruits and a subtle touch of coastal brine. The palate reveals a delightful interplay of flavors, including rich dark chocolate, honeyed malt, and a whisper of vanilla, all balanced by the signature Bowmore smokiness. The finish is long and satisfying, leaving a gentle lingering warmth.
Collectability and Appreciation
The Bowmore 12 Years Old Glass Printed Label, bottled in 2000, holds a special place among whisky enthusiasts and collectors. Its limited production and the passage of time make it a sought-after item for those looking to enhance their whisky collections. The vintage appeal, combined with the classic Bowmore flavor profile, makes this bottling a cherished addition to any connoisseur's repertoire.
Versatility and Enjoyment
The Bowmore 12 Years Old, with its balanced and approachable nature, is an ideal whisky for various occasions. Whether sipped neat, on the rocks, or in a classic whisky cocktail, it offers a memorable and versatile drinking experience. Its smoothness and depth of flavors make it equally enjoyable for both seasoned whisky enthusiasts and newcomers to the world of whisky.
Conclusion
The Bowmore 12 Years Old Glass Printed Label 1 Liter 43% showcases the craftsmanship and timeless appeal of Bowmore Distillery. This classic expression, bottled in 2000, offers whisky enthusiasts a glimpse into the distillery's rich heritage and dedication to producing exceptional spirits. With its elegant design, well-rounded flavor profile, and collectability, this bottling continues to captivate and delight whisky connoisseurs worldwide. Whether you're a devoted collector or simply seeking a high-quality whisky to savor, the Bowmore 12 Years Old is a true gem that embodies the essence of Islay's finest traditions.
About Bowmore
Bowmore is located in the centre of Islay and occupies a central role in the island’s whiskies. The distillery has retained its own floor maltings which account for 40% of its needs and when mixed with malt from the mainland results in a medium peated spirit.
Its smoke, reminiscent of beach bonfires, mingles with a distinctly saline note, flowers, cereal, citrus and underneath a touch of tropical fruit. It is this character which, when matured in refill casks for a long period of time, becomes the primary aroma, the peat seemingly disappearing completely.
A significant percentage of the make is aged in ex-Sherry butts which take Bowmore off in another direction – one of dark fruits, chocolate, coffee, citrus and smoke. The extensive range picks and chooses between these extremes. A significant percentage of the distillery’s whisky is matured on the island, with the distillery’s No.1 Vaults being held to have the most extraordinary microclimate. This chill, damp environment – the vault is below the level of Loch Indaal and one wall makes up the town’s sea wall – is seen as ideal for long-term maturation.
There are claims that Bowmore’s distillery started operation in 1779, but there’s no evidence of whisky being made until a certain John Simpson took out a licence in 1816. It wouldn’t be until 1837 when the Glasgow blending firm, Wm & Jas. Mutter took over that it began to gain traction and reputation. In 1841, Windsor Castle requested a cask of Bowmore – this being a time when the English palate was considered too delicate (or Scotch too bold). As often happens, the distillery passed through a number of hands before in this case it was bought, in 1963, by broker Stanley P. Morrison. The Morrison era saw the start of what is recognised as a legendary period in Bowmore’s history – its mid-1960s bottlings are legendary.
The distillery was substantially modernised with an innovative heat recovery system not only cutting down on fuel bills but creating sufficient excess hot water to heat the town’s swimming pool. In 1989 the Japanese distiller Suntory bought a stake in the distillery and took full control in 1994, the year after the ground-breaking Black Bowmore was launched. This 100% Sherry-aged release was sold for what at the time was seen as the ludicrously inflated price of £100.
In 2014 Suntory bought Jim Beam which, from an Islay perspective, sees two of Islay’s most iconic single malts (Bowmore and Laphroaig) under the same ownership.
In amazing condition
43% ABV
100cl
