Origin: Isle of Islay (Scotland)
Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky
Gradation: 46%ABV
Ageing cask: Ex-Sherry Refill
Chillfiltered: No
Added coloring: No
Owner: Signatory Vintage Scotch Whisky Company
Average price: € 95.00
Official website: www.signatoryusa.com
Vote: 90/100
A few days ago it was 20 years since the attack on the Twin Towers on 11 September 2001. Exactly two weeks later, on 25 September 2001, about 5,200 kilometres away from New York, in Bowmore, on Islay, today’s whisky was distilled, bottled by the independent Signatory, in 653 bottles in total, on 14 April 2014 after 12 and a half years spent entirely in a former sherry cask (no. 1372) which was not a first-fill cask. Part of the Unchillfiltered Collection, proposed at 46% ABV in its natural colour and, as per the label, without chillfiltration, it appears to be complicated to find and never before has the price been considered purely indicative.
Now, given our predilection for Bowmores in sherry, we can safely admit that expectations are high.
Tasting notes
A splendid amber colour shines in the glass.
The nose is welcoming, with impressions of caramel and ripe dates, a spice of black pepper, a balsamic vein of liquorice and a floral hint of primrose, with the usual light Bowmore smoke caressing the different scents, in a harmonious and elegant framework. After a few minutes, hints of freshly cut wood and aniseed are added to the mix, without compromising the balance.
On the palate, the whisky is round, inviting, with caramel, ripe dates and black pepper, always dressed in smoke, which are enhanced by a perfect alcohol content, capable of guaranteeing an uncommon persistence in the mouth. The balsamic vein disappears, and the memory of freshly cut wood becomes a scent of polished furniture, while a touch of whipped cream, with a hint of sultanas, is appreciated in the background.
The medium-long finish leaves a sense of warmth in the mouth, and memories of smoke, caramel and black pepper.
In practice, a model of Bowmore in sherry. Pure enjoyment, in our humble opinion: a whisky that seems to come from far away to tell a unique story, which enchants us from the first sip and which we wish would never end.
This review is dedicated to Francesca, wind and wings.