Bowmore 1996 20 Year Old Particular (Douglas Laing)

This expression comes from one of 274 bottles drawn from a refill hogshead (DL12109). This single cask was distilled in December 1996 and bottled in September 2017. This is a faultless bourbon-aged peated Islay whisky. It possesses Japanese precision and balance, yet distinctly Islay character. The nose is subtly rich and fruity, with notes of pineapple and custard. The peat is less pronounced than on the palate, which is floral, vanilla, and intensely peaty. The finish is spicy and peppery. This whisky feels lighter than its 51.5% ABV and can be enjoyed with or without a drop of water. I am particularly impressed by its complete lack of unpleasant characteristics, and I regret that I likely won't find another bottle. Score: ** (Incredibly good) Purchase price: $175 Estimated value: $275