Introduction
The Bowmore Distillery is located on the Isle of Islay, off the west coast of Scotland. Established in 1779, this Scotch malt distillery boasts a long and storied history and remains dedicated to traditional production methods such as peat mining and floor malting, setting it apart from other distilleries. These processes are carried out by skilled craftsmen. Bowmore Distillery is an important heritage of Scotch malt whisky production.
The influence of the sea air can be seen in the peat and malting process. Additionally, the No.1 Vaults, where the whisky is matured, directly faces the sea and is situated at sea level. Whether on calm or stormy days, the malt whisky matures while interacting with the natural environment of the sea. It is truly a maritime single malt.
The unique location and traditions of the Bowmore Distillery have resulted in a historical authenticity and a distinctive flavor that sets it apart from other single malts, with the aroma of the sea and an exquisite elegance.
Please enjoy the rich heritage and craftsmanship of Bowmore, the maritime single malt, to the fullest.
Environment of Bowmore Distillery
The Bowmore Distillery is located on the Isle of Islay, off the west coast of Scotland, at the southernmost tip of the Inner Hebrides, where islands dot the coast from north to south. This island is a treasure trove of untouched natural beauty and wildlife, and is known as the "Queen of the Hebrides." Bowmore Distillery, founded in 1779, is the oldest distillery on the island and is located in the heart of the Queen's Isle.
Although slightly larger than Awaji Island in Japan, the population of the island is less than 3,500 people. This island, with its eight malt whisky distilleries and one malting house, is known as a very rare whisky island. It is even referred to as the "Whisky Isle."
Whisky craftsmen say, "Whisky making was brought to this island from Ireland a long time ago." This island is also a place where if you head south by sea, you will reach Ireland, and Celtic history remains deeply rooted.
The aroma and flavor characteristics of Islay malt whisky, born from the distilleries on the island, are often described as "smoky and briny."
The Bowmore Distillery still performs floor malting within the distillery and uses peat in the drying process to create malt. The Isle of Islay is mostly covered by peatland. Peat is the remains of heather and other plants and is also called turf or peat. It is said that peat accumulation progresses only a few centimeters every hundred years.
The Bowmore Distillery has its own unique peat bog. The main difference between mainland Scottish peat and Bowmore peat is the high content of seaweed and shells in Bowmore peat. When standing in Bowmore's peat bog, you can witness the sight of seaweed and sea spray being blown in on windy days. By burning peat that is rich in the scent of the sea and contains plenty of briny notes, a unique smoky aroma permeates the malt.
Part of the origin of the maritime single malt is found here.
Heritage of Bowmore Distillery
The Bowmore Distillery has three proud heritages that have been passed down since ancient times and are highly regarded among Scotch malt distilleries.
- Being the oldest distillery on the Isle of Islay and one of the oldest in Scotland
- Traditional malt drying methods with floor malting and peat burning still practiced today
- No.1 Vaults, the oldest maturation warehouse in Scotch malt whisky, located at sea level
While most other Scotch malt distilleries entrust malt production to specialized companies, Bowmore Distillery remains a rare exception even in the 21st century, with smoke rising from the kiln, which is used for malt drying. Currently, there seem to be only about six active malt distilleries that still perform floor malting.
Bowmore Distillery entrusts 70% of its malt production to maltsters and produces the remaining 30% in-house. In other words, they still carry out floor malting and use peat for malt drying.
No.1 Vaults of Bowmore Distillery, also known as the No.1 Vaults, holds the title of the oldest maturation warehouse for Scotch malt whisky. It is located directly facing the sea and is built on the leveled bedrock of the coastline. The floor of the warehouse is below sea level, giving it a semi-underground structure. Depending on the weather, sea spray washes the outer walls, and during storms, rough waves relentlessly crash against the walls.
No.1 Vaults is situated in an extremely rare location and has maintained an ideal environment for cask maturation for approximately 240 years. The optimal humidity leads to deep maturation, enveloped in the aroma of the sea, contributing to the aromatic and flavorful elements.
A combination of the oldest traditions on the Isle of Islay and an unparalleled location create the essence of the maritime single malt.
Product Introduction
Bowmore 12 Year Old
Bowmore 12 Year Old is the flagship single malt of the Bowmore Distillery. It is matured in a combination of bourbon and sherry casks, which are expertly blended to create this whisky. It showcases a dry, smoky flavor that harmonizes beautifully with soft fruity notes. It has an overall warmth and sweetness, with a strong and graceful character fit for a queen. It is best enjoyed on the rocks.
Color: Amber
Nose: Smoky, lemon, honey
Palate: Woody, warm richness reminiscent of dark chocolate
Finish: Delicate, lingering, and elegant
Body: Medium-bodied