The flagship release from one of Islay’s stalwarts, Bowmore 12 is less heavily peated and more balanced than many of its neighbors. The nose opens with sea breeze, light herbal peat, lemon peel, and a touch of baking spice. On the palate, barbecue smoke mingles with black pepper, musty oak, and a savory, herbal peat note. The herbal peat smoke lingers through the finish, joined by a touch of mint, dark berries, and soft oak. A great introduction to peated whiskey, or a classic if you’re looking for a more subtle peated whiskey.