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Distilled on 12/11/1980. Bottled on 8/17/2011. Hogshead cask number 2105. 59.7%abv.

Deep gold color. Surprisingly lively for its age on the nose. A complex array of fruit (tangerine, sultana, pink grapefruit, papaya and the general overall citrus DNA that you’ll find in old Bowmores), with balancing notes of honey and vanilla. A hint of damp smoke and coconut. Just like with Black Bowmore, this is a texturally soothing whisky on the palate, which continues to evolve in waves—first the sweet honey, coating vanilla and lively fruit, then turning quite visceral, with juicy oak, damp earth, deep peat smoke, and charcoal, followed by another wave of fruit (this time dried fruit), finishing off with subtle charred oak and roasted nuts. This whisky is better than White Bowmore and it falls just short of Black Bowmore (which I rated 97) because it’s just a bit softer, less vibrant on the palate.

"Fabulous finish and plenty of walnut and toffee character. Full-bodied and incredibly sweet, offering a burnt orange, nut flavor. Delicious old wine."

"Aromas of succulent, dried fruit, oaky vanillin, marzipan, candied almond and buttercream chocolates—an altogether enticing and mature bouquet. Thankfully, not a plump, warm and fuzzy Sherry-a-thon in the taste stage; the crisp spirit keeps the taste buds engaged as the flavor shifts to the moderately candied side of the ledger. Finishes refreshing, agile and clean." 90-95 pts.

"There's a sense of poise to this rich, spiced Champagne. Finely detailed texture and acidity mix with ripe flavors of quince paste, candied orange peel, brioche and cream, while notes of ground ginger, cardamom, clove and white pepper ride through and linger on the finish."

Distilled in July of 1996. Bottled in October of 2009. 180 bottles from a Refill Hogshead. DL Ref 5110.