Bowmore Masters' Selection 21 Year Old Edition 4

1. Introduction

This single malt Scotch whisky originates from Scotland, specifically the Islay region. It is the fourth and final release in the Bowmore Aston Martin Masters' Selection series. The Bowmore Distillery, the oldest licensed whisky producer on Islay, dates back to 1779. This expression is a collaborative creation between Bowmore's Master Blender Ron Welsh (before his retirement) and Aston Martin's Chief Creative Officer Marek Reichman. The collaboration aims to celebrate the shared values of precision, heritage, and excellence between the two luxury brands.

2. Spirit Description

This is a 21-year-old single malt. It was matured in a careful selection of ex-Tawny Port American Oak casks and Refill Sherry Butts, specifically Oloroso Sherry butts. The maturation process was designed to bring together components of the previous three releases to achieve a finale that celebrates flavour and complexity.

• Colour: Mahogany, a deep and timeless tone infused from the Tawny Port casks.

• Aroma: Rich and complex, balanced between a nutty character and sweetness. Initial notes include roasted hazelnuts, leather, fresh pipe tobacco, dark chocolate, and oak spices. This is followed by dark maple syrup, liquorice, and charred peaches, with a subtle background of Crème Anglaise, bergamot syrup, and light peaty notes.

• Palate: Honey sweet with rich salted toffee, roasted chestnuts, and grilled Seville orange zest. Further notes include sultanas, dry thyme, oak spices, and velvety milk chocolate. A gentle peat smoke is also present.

• Body: The mouthfeel is initially velvety.

• Finish: The finish is long and drying. It is mouth-warming with lingering notes of peat smoke.

• Stylistic Notes: This single malt pays homage to the intentionality that defines Bowmore, gathering momentum, flavour, and intensity at every stage. It is a limited-edition release.

• ABV: The alcoholic strength is 51.4% ABV.