This single cask bottling comes from a hogshead filled on August 9, 1980 – the day Queen Elizabeth made her first and only visit to a Scotch whisky distillery when she visited Bowmore. While this is not the cask specially laid down for the Queen’s later use, the cask was acquired by former Morrison Bowmore chairman Jim Howat and bottled in 2011 for the charitable trust created after his death. Only 156 bottles were produced, and it remains available through The Whisky Exchange in London.

The nose is full of smoky grilled fruits, honey, oak, and a hint of heather. The taste is fruity, tart, and smoky with grilled pineapple, mango, orange oils, a subtle peatiness, and hints of clove, honey, and toasted oak. The finish lingers with a nice fruitiness and a touch of smoke. Very nice. (December, 2014)