Established in 1779, Bowmore bears the distinction of being Islay's first distillery and also one of Scotland's oldest. The distillery is one of the few known that continue with many traditional whisky-making methods, such as using floor maltings. Its location near the sea is important, said to impart a unique sea air character to its spirits. Most of their whiskies mature in the No. 1 Vaults, below sea level, in cool but humidconditions ideal for developing their distinct flavours.

For those interested in rare whiskies, 2024 is set to be an exciting year. In a statement, Beam Suntory has identified several well-aged Bowmore expressions that enthusiasts and collectors should keep an eye on.

Bowmore 30-Year-Old

This expression is matured for three decades in Sherry hogshead and Bourbon barrels, showcasing Bowmore’s rich, subtly smoky style. Only two casks are selected annually for this release, with fewer than 3,000 bottles available worldwide.

The Bowmore 30-Year-Old manifests Bowmore’s characteristic rich fruity flavours, balanced with a subtle peat smokiness, and is bottled at 45.1% cask strength. ,

Official Tasting Notes

The whisky exudes aromas of ripe apricot, charred pineapple, mango and butterscotch. On the palate, tropical fruits and honeyed sweetness harmonise with a delicate peat smoke and hints of eucalyptus, culminating in a warm, lingering finish.

Bowmore 40-Year-Old

An even rarer find, the Bowmore 40-Year-Old is limited to a little over 100 bottles globally. This expression draws inspiration from Islay’s natural landscape and the passage of time and is bottled at 48.7% cask strength.

Official Tasting Notes

This Bowmore 40-Year-Old offers aromas of juicy papaya, passionfruit, rich cocoa and butterscotch, combining the flavours of cocoa and tobacco with butterscotch and subtle peat smoke.

Bowmore Timeless 1969

The 1960s goes down as a significant decade for Bowmore, producing some of the world's most sought-after whiskies. The Bowmore Timeless 1969 stands as a prime example of this era which is aged for over 50 years.

Official Tasting Notes

This epic union between spirit and oak offers aromatic whiffs of freesia, geraniums, lilies, chablis, citrus fruit, and gooseberries with acacia honey, apple pie, vanilla and cream, that follows with blossoming flavours of carnations, accompanied by sweet lemon meringue, grilled almonds, and creme caramel fudge, tinged with hints of white pepper, nutmeg, and coconut, and a lingering subtle sweet and warm finish.

Bowmore Timeless 29 Years, Aston Martin #3 22 Years

In addition to these, Bowmore will also be releasing the Bowmore Timeless Aged 29 Years and Bowmore Aston Martin Masters’ Selection Edition #3 22-Years-Old in 2024.

These expressions from Bowmore offer a unique experience to whisky enthusiasts around the globe.

“Bowmore’s precise approach has created exceptionally expressive aged and rare launches that credit to the Bowmore portfolio and continue to drive our desire to produce highly coveted products," shared Daryl Haldane, Beam Suntory International's Private Client Director.

Kanpai!

88 Bamboo Editorial Team