Bowmore 1989 16 Year Old Bourbon Cask

A pale malt as befits the cask type used. I remember being very keen to obtain this bottle, but now I’m not sure why. The aromas are strong, plenty of smoke with a medicinal peaty element, some seaweed is evident along with a herby whiff which I think is thyme.

Plenty of attack, although I’m loath to dilute at this percentage. I persevere to find more seaweed and herbs, the smoke and peat takes a back seat and some hints of tropical fruit, coconut and pine appear later into the finish. The profile is dry throughout and surprisingly light, the bourbon cask seemingly providing little to challenge the spirit, or the latter is just too dominant.

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