This is the first of a pair of Whisky Exchange exclusives bottled by The Whisky Agency: Bowmore 1998. Although it was matured in a sherry butt, the colour doesn’t indicate much sherry influence. This should focus on the fruitier end of the spectrum.
Bowmore 19 yo 1998 (48,8%, The Whisky Agency for The Whisky Exchange 2018, sherry butt, 187 btl.)
Nose: a particularly fresh version. Starts on roots, subtle bandages, sea spray, oysters and some peppermint. Then candied notes come to the fore: Haribo bears, hints of mango puree and pineapple cubes. Very subtle peat smoke. Great so far.
Mouth: yes, same tropical fruits. They’re not as big as the 1960s Bowmores, but they’re there. Pink grapefruits, limes, subtle hints of passion fruits. Lovely combination with the peat smoke, liquorice and herbs. Subtle leafy notes, a touch of menthol.
Finish: long and bittersweet, with lime zest, ashes and hints of cocoa.
Ashes, brine and tropical fruits, such a terrific combination. This brings us so close to the profile of really old Bowmore. Around € 250, exclusively available from The Whisky Exchange. While you’re at it, check their other fruit bomb, the Irish single malt 1993.
Score: 91/100