A single cask of 1989 Bowmore selected by the Italian bottler Samaroli and bottled in 2000 at 45% ABV. It was released in Samaroli's "Very Limited Edition" range and bottled for the Roman firm Vinattieri Romani.
About This Whisky
Cask 2873 was distilled in 1989 and bottled in 2000, so the whisky is around 10 to 11 years old. It was reduced to 45% rather than bottled at cask strength. Bowmore from the late 1980s is often described as more perfumed and floral than later vintages, a style that divides opinion, so this is best approached with that in mind. Cask type is not stated on the label.
Tasting Profile
- Nose: Peat smoke, lemon peel, sea spray and a floral, slightly soapy lift typical of the period
- Palate: Medium-bodied, with citrus, malt, lavender-like florals and gentle smoke
- Finish: Medium length, salty and smoky with a dry finish
Serving & Food
At 45% it needs little or no water; a nosing glass at room temperature is enough. Grilled prawns, oysters or smoked mackerel complement the salt and citrus.
How to Enjoy
Samaroli collectors, and Bowmore enthusiasts exploring the distillery's late 1980s style.
Product Details
Distillery: Bowmore
Bottler: Samaroli (Very Limited Edition)
Bottled for: Vinattieri Romani
Vintage: 1989
Bottled: 2000
Cask: No. 2873
Country: Scotland
Region: Islay
ABV: 45.0% ABV
Volume: 700mL
About the Distillery
Samaroli was founded in Rome in 1968 by Silvano Samaroli, who began as an importer and became the first independent bottler of Scotch whisky based outside the UK. His first own-label releases came in 1979, followed by the "Flowers" series in 1981, and he was an early champion of single casks and high-strength bottlings. Several of his older Bowmore and Laphroaig releases are now keenly sought at auction. Silvano died in 2017; the business is run today by Antonio Bleve.
The spirit comes from Bowmore on the shore of Loch Indaal, founded in 1779 and the oldest licensed distillery on Islay, known for fruit and floral notes sitting alongside medium peat.