Elements of Islay Bw8

Elements of Islay Bw8, 16 YO, 51.2 %

This is an independet bottling of Bowmore whisky distilled between 2001 and 2003. Matured in ex-bourbon barrels and ex-sherry butts for 16 to 18 years. The total outturn was 1320 bottles.

The Elements of Islay Bw8 is available in Norway at NOK 1930 (12160102), and in Sweden at SEK 1655 (8341602).

Nose: Oaky wood smoke. Cold ashes. Floral with hints of citrus in the background.

Taste: Medium body and sweetness. Oaky and floral on the first sip. Creamy vanilla and chocolate banana cake. Salty soot and driftwood bonfire.

Finish: Long finish. More salty now, and with a bitter-ish side note, I’m thinking grapefruit. Remains floral. Soot and ashes. Comes across as a little harsh.

Comment: A fine, if not super interesting, Bowmore.

Score 85/100

Sláinte!
-Thomas