Bowmore Over 20 Years Old 2001 Single Malt Scotch Whisky 700ml, 54.8% ABV, 665 Bottles

La Maison du Whisky's Artist #12 series presents a 21-year-old Bowmore, distilled in 2001 and bottled in 2022. This expression spent its final maturation in a first-fill sherry butt cask, which resulted in a total production of 665 bottles at 54.8% alcohol.

Nose: The aroma of this Bowmore is a delightful mix of pine needles, smoked and ripe pineapple. The smokiness is noticeable but not overpowering, giving way to fruity notes that are enhanced by the sherry finish. The nose also features a subtle hint of sea breeze that is common in whiskies from the Bowmore distillery.

Palate: Upon taking a sip, the toffee and milk chocolate flavors hit the palate first, followed by the taste of ripe walnuts. The sherry influence is once again prominent, providing a rich and fruity sweetness that complements the smokiness. The mouthfeel is oily and velvety, coating the mouth and leaving a lingering impression.

Finish: The finish is long and satisfying, with a salty taste that's reminiscent of peanut butter. The sweetness of the sherry is also present, along with the smoke and fruit flavors that were present in the nose and palate. The Bowmore 21-year-old is a complex and delicious expression that showcases the best of the distillery's character and the sherry cask finish.