NOSE Fresh maritime smoke, a touch of salt, lemon zest, red apple, tangerine and redcurrant. Vanilla and light honey over soft Islay peat. Clean and very promising. PALATE Smooth and warming, composed and elegant, with slightly ashy smoke that never dominates. Kumquat, candied citrus, vanilla, a hint of toffee and ginger spice. Beautifully textured, almost oily, with a great balance of sweetness, fruit and smoke. FINISH / VERDICT Gently drying, softly smoky, with lingering citrus and light oak spice. No flaws, no off-notes whatsoever. What stands out most, beyond the silky texture, is the level of integration. Blind, I would never guess 57.1% ABV, the classic 100 British Imperial Proof. This young malt easily outshines the peated releases from Signatory’s 100 Proof series, including the dark labels I have tried so far, offering more character and better balance. Summa summarum: do not be fooled by the 9-year age statement or the fair €60 price tag. This is a lucky cask that punches well above its weight, reminiscent of Bowmore’s popular Tempest series and Jack Wiebers’ bourbon-matured ‘Wanted’ releases. Further notes and reviews on Instagram and Facebook: #maltkanzlei
нос 88 · вкус 88 · финиш 89
Tasted from a Glencairn glass. Tasted neat, without water! This is another pleasant, young Bowmore that doesn't hide its character. Clearly, it's young and still seems a bit boisterous to me, but nevertheless, it already brings a lovely sweetness and creaminess to the glass.