This is a single cask Bowmore 2002 recently bottled by the folks at Master of Malt. Matured in a plain bourbon barrel.
Bowmore 15 yo 2002 (54%, Master of Malt 2018, bourbon barrel)
Nose: one of these very mezcal-ly modern Bowmores. Chiselled, with plenty of brine, limestone and a little petrol. Really nice. Some almonds, grapefruits, lemon peel, a little menthol and hessian. Ashes on a beach, but it’s more ‘industrial’ than peaty, if that makes sense.
Mouth: close to the raw materials, showing a great combination of pink grapefruits and smoke, including the slightly tropical fruity side (traces of passion fruits). Then more towards chalky notes and charred oak, lots of salt and still this hint of artisan mezcal.
Finish: long, very coastal, with lemons and cold smoke.
Excellent Bowmore with traces of mezcal and lovely echoes of tropical fruits. Nice selection work. No need to keep talking – you can find it at Master of Malt.
Score: 90/100