Founded in 1779, Bowmore holds the distinction of being the oldest operating distillery on Islay, the stronghold region of peated whisky production. Amongst collectors and enthusiasts, Bowmore’s legacy is often highlighted as that of a producer with some of the greatest and most collectible Scotch whiskies.

The Bowmore Distillery, Islay, Scotland (Source: J. Micallef)

The distillery is famed for its proximity to the coast, with an iconic Warehouse No. 1 perched dramatically on the edge of Loch Indaal, its stores partly below sea level. This quirk in its architecture is said to allow the maturing whiskies within to breathe in the salty maritime air, evoking the briny, maritime character that marks older Bowmore expressions.

During World War II, the distillery was used as an air force base. RAF Coast Command commandeered the distillery between 1940 and 1943.

Bowmore recently unveiled its Sherry Oak Cask Series in Singapore, showcasing the distillery's characteristic smoky maritime style complemented by the richness of Sherry oak casks.

This series comprises three distinct expressions that will be permanent additions to Bowmore’s lineup: the Sherry Oak Cask 12 Years Old, 15 Years Old, and 18 Years Old. Both the 12 and 15-year-old whiskies undergo maturation in a combination of ex-Bourbon and Oloroso sherry-seasoned casks. The 18-year-old takes this a step further, being initially matured in the same cask combination before receiving an additional finishing period in Pedro Ximénez sherry casks for yet deeper, richer notes.

The private members’ club, 67 Pall Mall Singapore, is currently offer a specially curated tasting flight featuring the Sherry Oak Cask Series, available as their Flight Of The Month. Singapore-based fans and collectors will also find the bottles available for purchase via the Suntory Global Spirits LazMall store starting from 15 July.

I recently attended the Bowmore Sherry Oak’s launch event at 67 Pall Mall Singapore to learn more about the collection and experience these whiskies firsthand.

Whisky Review: Bowmore Sherry Oak Cask 12 Years Old

Tasting Notes

Nose: Mellow and rounded initially, dominated by vanilla, caramel and icing sugar, before opening up to rich barley nuances. Mature sherry-influenced fruits begin to emerge gradually, accompanied by dried apricot sweetness and a subtle undertone of red berries. There is a distinctive spiced presence complementing the fruitiness, marked by hints of anise and black pepper. Some coastal influence too–saline and mineral, reminiscent of clay and wet stone with faint smoky embers interwoven.

Palate: Opens with smoked fruits; sweet pears alongside distinct medicinal notes of ash and pepper. As the whisky evolves, vanilla, orchard fruit and smoked citrus notes increase in prominence.

Finish: Notably long and spiced, underpinned by persistent medicinal ashiness and smoked citrus peels. Some toasted almonds along with dry ashy elements of Lapsang Souchong.

My Thoughts:

I love how the nose is appealingly mellow initially, but gradually reveals layers of complexity and elegance. The palate presents a robust but approachable profile that expresses the spirit’s inherent smoked citrus and maritime character without excessive oak along with a minor sweetness form the sherry influence.

Its complexity unfolds clearly and gradually, underscored by subtle and nuanced elements. It’s a very engaging interplay of sweet orchard fruits, citrus, spice and medicinal smokiness.

Whisky Review: Bowmore Sherry Oak Cask 15 Years Old

Tasting Notes

Nose: Still very mellow and smooth overall but immediately reveals greater depth and richness old. Pronounced presence of dried fruits, particularly raisins and dates alongside smoked orange peels and grilled pineapple. More baking spices coming through, predominantly cinnamon and anise, with minor notes of cacao powder.

Palate: Balanced, with distinctly caramelised fruit notes and a confectionery feel to it. Opens with more grilled pineapples and treacle, immediately followed by a pronounced bite of lemon zest–that classic smoked citrus profile of Bowmore. Mid-palate introduces prominent spice notes alongside chocolate, subtle liquorice, and a smoky saltiness of grilled seaweed.

Finish: Notably long, with aromatic cedarwood and a persistent, gentle ashiness while dark chocolate, coffee, and a touch of sweet black tea linger. Slight coastal character that recalls more of that seaweed, alongside savoury black sesame.

My Thoughts:

I particularly enjoyed how smoothly this began with its confectionery-like sweetness, before transitioning distinctly into that lively citrus-infused bite so characteristic of Bowmore. It’s got an appealing contrast – just as the caramelised fruit flavours increase in depth over time, so does the assertive citrus bite.

The exceptionally long finish also stands out, with an evocative aromatic ashiness on a backdrop of dark chocolate, cedarwood and coastal seaweed influences that make it a fantastic pairing partner for richer seafood dishes – think lobster with butter sauce.

Whisky Review: Bowmore Sherry Oak Cask 18 Years Old

Tasting Notes

Nose: Immediately richer and lusher on the nose, with pronounced depth of ripe red fruits, berries, cherries and apricots. There is also a distinct caramel presence, deepened by Manuka honey, burnt sugar and dark chocolate. Some toasted barley notes emerge, accompanied by subtle earthiness and faint incense-like aromatic smoke.

Palate: It’s an oily, luxurious texture. Flavours begin with caramelised pineapple and peaches, mingling seamlessly with smoked orange peels and sultanas, before revealing robust notes of herbaceous earthiness, ash, and a bit of wool coming through. Warm spices develop steadily, while a more substantial sip reveals intensified red fruit character alongside clear barley sweetness. Bowmore’s classic citrus warmth and bite is evident but tempered by the richness of caramel and lush fruit elements.

Finish: Long and lingering with sustained fruits. Gentle smoked florals, light medicinal ashiness and continued notes of ripe red berry fruits as well as indistinct toasted nuts.

My Thoughts:

The Bowmore Sherry Oak 18 is impressively generous and expressive. The flavours are all there without a need to search–everything just unfolds effortlessly with an appealing oily texture, while lush fruit character is balanced by approachable, friendly smokiness and sweetness. It's really easy to see that particular expression would be a crowd favourite. It’s smooth, flavoursome and incredibly accessible.

You would notice a clear evolution as you taste through the entire range. The 12-year-old expression emphasised orchard fruits, vanilla and a subtle maritime character of the inherent spirit. Moving onto the 15-year-old, sweeter and richer tropical fruit flavours begin to emerge with some pineapples. With this 18-year-old expression, that fruit richness deepens further with caramelised pineapple and stone fruits, while the added PX sherry influence adds luscious red fruits and toasted nuts that really elevates the 18-year-old into a truly memorable sherry influenced expression.

The Bowmore Sherry Oak Collection would soon be available for purchase via the Suntory Global Spirits LazMall store from 15 July with prices ranging between S$120 to S$300.

@CharsiuCharlie