BOWMORE – EXPLORE THE LEGENDARY ISLAY DISTILLERY AND ITS MOST REVERED 18 YEAR OLD WHISKIES

Founded in 1779, Bowmore holds the title of Islay’s oldest licensed distillery and one of the most respected names in Scotch whisky. Located on the shores of Loch Indaal, its white-washed walls and iconic pagoda roof have become a landmark for whisky lovers worldwide.

Bowmore has built its reputation on balance. While many Islay single malts are known for intense, smoky profiles, Bowmore’s style is more refined—combining gentle peat with vibrant fruit, warming spice, and subtle maritime salinity. This harmony has made it a favourite both for seasoned collectors and for whisky drinkers taking their first steps into the world of peated Scotch.

A hallmark of Bowmore is its traditional floor malting—still turning barley by hand for a portion of its production—paired with maturation in the legendary Vault No. 1 warehouse, one of the few below sea-level in the world. The constant influence of the ocean air imparts a signature coastal note that runs through every expression.

With more than two centuries of craftsmanship, Bowmore continues to create whiskies that celebrate both its Islay heritage and its forward-thinking approach to flavour.

Bowmore 18 Year Old – Review & Tasting Notes

The Bowmore 18 Year Old is a prime example of how time transforms a whisky. Matured for nearly two decades in carefully selected oak casks, it develops deep complexity without losing Bowmore’s trademark elegance.

Appearance: Deep amber with golden copper highlights.
Nose: Rich toffee, treacle, dark cocoa, and roasted nuts, layered with mature oak and mellow peat smoke.
Palate: Velvety and full-bodied. Dark chocolate and molasses lead, followed by candied almonds, hints of black cherry, and gentle baking spice.
Finish: Long, warming, and slightly nutty, with sweet oak, cocoa, and a refined wisp of maritime smoke.

Why it’s special: Bowmore 18 Year Old offers a perfectly integrated peat profile, where smoke enhances rather than dominates. It’s sophisticated, balanced, and ideal for slow sipping—making it a favourite for both collectors and connoisseurs.

If you’re searching to buy Bowmore 18 Year Old online, it’s a standout Islay single malt that delivers on both prestige and flavour.

Bowmore 18 Year Old Sherry Cask Finish – Review & Tasting Notes

For those who enjoy the richness of sherry cask maturation, the Bowmore 18 Year Old Sherry Cask Finish takes the classic 18 and adds an indulgent twist. Finished in premium Oloroso sherry casks, it develops a luxurious sweetness and layered depth.

Appearance: Deep mahogany with ruby reflections.
Nose: Lush aromas of black cherries, figs, sultanas, and plum compote, complemented by cocoa and sweet tobacco.
Palate: Opulent and silky. Dried fruit, dark chocolate, and espresso beans combine with polished oak, a touch of salted caramel, and gentle maritime salinity.
Finish: Exceptionally long, with lingering sherry sweetness, warm spice, and elegant, understated smoke.

Why it’s special: This expression is a sherry lover’s dream, offering the richness of dried fruit and spice while retaining Bowmore’s subtle coastal peat. It’s decadent yet balanced, perfect for evenings when only the most indulgent dram will do.

Choosing Between the Two

• Bowmore 18 Year Old – Balanced and elegant, with dark chocolate, toffee, and mellow smoke.

• Bowmore 18 Sherry Cask Finish – Richer and sweeter, with dried fruit, cocoa, and pronounced sherry influence.

Whichever you choose, both whiskies showcase Bowmore’s mastery of Islay single malt craftsmanship, combining tradition, time, and the unique influence of the sea.