Whisky Review/Tasting: Bowmore Enigma 12 years

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Bowmore Enigma is from the Isle of Islay, located in the Inner Hebrides, west of Scotland.
Type: It is a single malt Scotch whisky.
Distillation & Maturation: The whisky has a significant Oloroso sherry cask influence, distinguishing it from other Bowmore expressions primarily sold in domestic markets.
Age Statement: The whisky carries a 12-year age statement.
Color & Clarity: Described as having a deep bronze color.
Bottle Design: The bottle and its packaging are themed around the concept of 'Enigma,' suggesting mystery and secrecy, though specific design details are not elaborated.

The Bowmore Enigma exhibits a complex balance of flavors, including classic Bowmore smokiness infused with sherry notes and hints of heather honey.
The flavor profile is an intriguing mix of peat smoke, heather honey, and rich sherry flavors, with additional notes of fresh lemon zest, resins, and subtle sea salt.
The whisky offers a balance between smoky and fruity/sweet sherry characteristics, with a mouth-watering sensation that suggests sweetness and a transition to dryness.
Vanilla notes also come through, adding to the complexity of the whisky.

The name 'Enigma' evokes the mystery and secrecy associated with the WWII German encryption machine, suggesting that the whisky has hidden depths to be explored.
The Bowmore Enigma was initially a travel retail exclusive, making it somewhat elusive and now increasingly rare as it is believed to be phased out.

Bowmore is recognized as the first Islay malt, boasting the oldest foundation date among distilleries on the Isle of Islay (1779).
The whisky reflects the dual influence of Islay's land and sea, capturing the essence of its home with flavors that are as changeable as the island's weather.

"This is more than other Islay whiskies can provide because they typically do not have these sherry flavors in it."
"A wonderful old Beaumont."
"It's definitely a buy."
The host draws an interesting parallel between the complexity of the whisky and the historical Enigma machine, suggesting that both contain mysteries to be uncovered.

Bowmore Enigma 12 years is a single malt Scotch whisky from Islay, with a significant Oloroso sherry cask influence.
It features a complex flavor profile of smokiness, sherry sweetness, and hints of sea salt and lemon zest.
The whisky is named 'Enigma,' reflecting its mysterious and complex nature.
It was initially a travel retail exclusive and is now becoming rare, with prices increasing.
The whisky captures the essence of Islay, reflecting both the land and sea influences.
Recommended for those who can find it at an affordable price, avoiding collector's prices.

Islay Whisky Enthusiasts: Individuals who appreciate the peaty and smoky characteristics typical of Islay whiskies will enjoy the added complexity of sherry cask maturation.
Sherry Cask Fans: Those who favor the rich, fruity, and sweet notes from sherry cask maturation will find the Bowmore Enigma particularly appealing due to its balance of sherry and peat.
Collectors and Connoisseurs: Given its increasing rarity and unique flavor profile, collectors looking for distinctive bottles or connoisseurs seeking complex whiskies with depth might find the Bowmore Enigma a worthy addition.
Whisky History Buffs: Individuals interested in whisky history and the cultural significance of Islay might be drawn to the Bowmore Enigma for its storytelling and connection to the oldest Islay malt distillery.