Bowmore European Fly Fishing Championships

Last night's "The Perfect Collection" masterclass featured a delightful tasting of one of Bowmore's most elusive and coveted whiskies. This "European Fly Fishing Championships" bottling was a special release, a gift from Bowmore to attendees of the 2003 European Fly Fishing Tournament, not available for purchase. It's so rare that collectors become ecstatic when encountering this rarity in the secondary market. It's bottled at 40% ABV and has a light golden hue. The nose presents a distinct yet aromatic peat. It starts with a maritime character. Aromas include plastic, copper, tar, iodine, and blood. After the initial taste, notes of pineapple, orange peel, and pond water emerged. The palate is primarily sweet with saline undertones. Flavors of vanilla, meringue, salt, and pencil are detected. A second sip revealed tropical notes of pineapple pulp and syrup. The finish is somewhat simple but maintains the whisky's momentum. Expect pencil, peat, salt, and pepper. Dark chocolate with salt is also present. In conclusion, this is an excellent single malt. The few individuals who possess it have likely not even opened their bottles, considering its scarcity and current market value approaching $5,000. It's a true rarity. I award this bottle from Richard Gooding's Perfect Collection a score of 93 out of 100. Cheers!