Taster

Nose: Floral phenols and pencil shavings. Smoker's toothpaste and floral air freshener. Damp autumn leaves and river mud.

Palate: Treacle, burnt sugar and cinnamon sticks.

Finish: Coffee-like bitterness.

Comment: A little mucky on the nose when diluted.

Score: 7

Taster

Nose: Immediate smoke and light sootiness. Mint chocolate mixed with Soreen malt loaf.

Palate: Fishy.

Finish: The slight mustiness of age mingled with rose petal, then smoke descends like a fog. When it lifts there's a flavour akin to old kipper boxes.

Comment: Old Bowmore is fascinating: it either becomes light and tropical with no smoke or reduces into this anchovy like concentration.

Score: 8.3