The Bowmore 12 Year Old (2002) bottled by Signatory Vintage is a special edition single malt Scotch whisky from the Bowmore Distillery, one of the oldest on the Isle of Islay. This expression is part of Signatory Vintage’s Un-Chillfiltered Collection, known for its unique selections and natural presentation of whiskies.
Distillation and Maturation
Distilled in 2002 at the Bowmore Distillery, this whisky was aged for 12 years. It was matured in refill sherry hogshead casks, which contribute significantly to its flavor profile. The use of refill sherry casks imparts a combination of rich fruitiness and traditional Bowmore peat smoke.
Tasting Notes and Characteristics
The Bowmore 12 Year Old (2002) by Signatory Vintage typically exhibits a balance of subtle lemon and honey, balanced beautifully by Bowmore’s trademark peaty smokiness. The palate may reveal sweet and delicious heather honey and gentle peat smoke, along with the influence of the sherry cask maturation.
Packaging and Presentation
As with other Signatory Vintage releases, this whisky is likely presented in packaging that highlights its single cask nature and the Un-Chillfiltered Collection. The label typically includes detailed information about the distillation and bottling, emphasizing the whisky’s age and unique characteristics.
Conclusion
The Bowmore 12 Year Old (2002) bottled by Signatory Vintage is a testament to the craftsmanship of both the Bowmore Distillery and Signatory Vintage. Its 12-year maturation in sherry casks and the resulting depth of flavor make it a sought-after whisky for enthusiasts and collectors, particularly those who appreciate the unique character of Islay malts and the expertise of independent bottlers.
