Bowmore David Simpson Distillery Exclusive

Bowmore generated some buzz in 2020 with a distillery exclusive called David Simson. This highly priced expression honors the founder of Islay's oldest continuously operating distillery. Bottled at 50.7% ABV, it has been matured in Oloroso and Pedro Ximenez sherry for at least 20 years, displaying a deep dark copper color. Only 6,000 bottles were released. The aroma begins with ashes, gooseberries, and burn skin lotion, with a very maritime, thick lotion scent. Some hazelnut and chocolate notes are present, along with povidone and horse stables. It's the most characteristically 'Bowmorish' aroma imaginable, smelling like a rodeo. Nutella and creamy vanilla emerge after the first taste. On the palate, it's undeniably a Bowmore, with saltiness, maritime notes, and earthiness simultaneously. Black pepper and ashes are detected. The second sip was somewhat muted, revealing dark chocolate and smoke notes. The aftertaste is pleasant, a tasty ashy finish with intermittent puffs of smoke. It's a pepper bomb in a good way, with a sublime finish that is salty, ashy, and has a nice bite. Overall, I truly enjoyed this expression; its aftertaste is quite flavorful, and it has a good nose. The palate was a bit weak, and while I consider it a very good whisky, it doesn't justify the high price. The 50.7% ABV didn't contribute to more complex palate notes, and the sherry character isn't very prominent given the Oloroso and PX maturation. Despite these points, this expression remains a very enjoyable whisky, meriting a score of 90 out of 100.

Outstanding example of Bowmore. A sweet, full nose offering honey, vanilla, raisins, and a touch of sea spray. This is followed by a rich, creamy mouthfeel with dark fruits, festive spices, and a gentle, warming smokiness, all refined by two decades in the cask. The lengthy, lingering finish makes it a nearly flawless pour.