Bowmore 22 Years Old Wilson & Morgan Barrel Selection Cask 3321 - 3350 46.8% 1990

Professional reviews

BOW (88)

Bowmore Sublime Harmony: A Symphony of Subtle Peat and Red Fruits.

Bowmore, the venerable Islay distillery, unveils a masterpiece of balance and complexity in this expression—a subtly peated single malt that delicately intertwines the essence of red fruits with a whisper of sugar sweetness. Emanating a hint of potential PX cask influence, the dram invites enthusiasts into a harmonious journey where peat, sweetness, and red fruits converge with finesse.

Nose:

The olfactory experience begins with a gentle dance of aromas that gracefully waft from the glass. Linoleum, a peculiar yet intriguing note, sets the stage for the revelation of red fruits—ripe and luscious. A subtle wisp of rubber emerges, seamlessly blending with smoky and vegetal undertones. The nose carries a delicate spiciness, and remarkably, there is an absence of any overpowering alcohol punch. Smoothness and gentleness prevail, creating an inviting prelude to the tasting symphony.

Taste:

As the elixir graces the palate, a symphony of flavors unfolds in a smooth and spicy procession. The linoleum note persists, accompanied by an infusion of red fruits that exude a succulent sweetness. The texture is notably thick and syrupy, enhancing the overall structure of the dram. Amidst the red fruits, a nuanced sugar sweetness emerges, complemented by subtle spicy undertones. The taste profile is a testament to the artful craftsmanship, where each note finds its place in perfect harmony.

Finish:

The denouement of this Bowmore revelation is a smooth and lingering finish that captivates the senses. Maple syrup takes center stage, intertwining with the enduring presence of red fruits. The sugar sweetness persists, accompanied by a subtle yet distinct spiciness that gracefully extends the finale. The finish, like a well-conducted coda, leaves a lasting impression—long, sweet, and undeniably satisfying.

Conclusion:

Bowmore has crafted a sublime expression that showcases the art of balance and nuance. The interplay of subtle peat, red fruits, and sugar sweetness is orchestrated with precision, offering a sensory journey that is both delightful and refined. For those who appreciate the beauty of harmonious complexity, this Bowmore creation stands as a testament to the distillery's expertise. In every nuance, from the linoleum-infused nose to the lingering sweetness on the finish, Bowmore Sublime Harmony is an experience that transcends the ordinary, inviting enthusiasts to savor the intricacies of this well-composed symphony in a glass.

Official tasting note ()

While our recent Bowmore 2001 had only a hint of PX, this older expression goes the whole way thanks to a longer period of finishing. It’s obvious from the nose: rhubarb and quina liqueur, cola nut, dried raisins, sweet tea dominate at first… and only after a while organic notes of leather and moderate peat start to emerge. At the palate it shows loads of sugarcane, coffee and once again cola. Then it gradually becomes more balsamic, with restrained medicinal notes of peat and camphor. Its sweetness is huge but never cloying, thanks to a fresh and piquant character. The sweet and spicy character lingers persistently in the mouth, and the finale is reminiscent of aged juicy Demerara rum.