Review #: 430
Description: SMWS 3.314 “Loungecore Stave Exocitism” Bowmore 15 Year
Spirit: Scotch
Background: This is a single barrel from Bowmore, bottled by the Scotch Malt Whisky Society. Distilled in February of 2004, it was aged for 14 years in a refill hogshead, followed by a year in a first fill barique that was shaved, toasted, and recharred. Not sure what they held before hand (though my guess would be bourbon and sherry, respectfully). This was bottled for the Islay Festival in 2020 and exclusive to the US branch of SMWS.
Distillery – Bowmore
Bottler – Scotch Malt Whisky Society
Brand – Scotch Malt Whisky Society
Selection – N/A
ABV – 56.8%
Age – 15 Years
Nose – Lots of sweet and savory spices, Christmas cake, maraschino cherries, candied ginger, lots of toasted and chocolatey oak, almost a bit of industrial funk like a Jamaican rum
Taste – Caramel, dark raspberry, vanilla almond milk, ginger snap cookie, dried pineapple
Finish – Heavy on the oak and spice, but not too aggressive. Cinnamon, baking chocolate, tree bark
Score: 6
Would I buy a bottle? No
Thoughts: A really nice and intriguing barrel. The STR is apparent but works quite well with the spirit. Lots of bold spices and the proof still are a bit punchy, but enjoyable enough for a pour to sit down with for a while.