Bowmore 12 years old Old Version Single Islay Malt Scotch Whisky 40%

A screen-printed label from the 1990s, a classic Bowmore 12 Year and the unmistakable Islay identity. This is the bottle many people remember as their first real Islay malt — and as a collector's piece, it is now more sought-after than ever.

Expert's description

Bowmore 12 Year Old Version is an Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky matured in ex-bourbon and sherry casks and bottled at 40%. This is the screen-printed edition from the 1990s — a format that has been discontinued and marks a specific chapter in Bowmore's design history. Screen printing directly onto the glass bottle was the standard for the export market at the time, and today it is a marker for collectors of historical whiskies. The contents are classic Bowmore 12 Year: matured in a combination of ex-bourbon and sherry casks in the iconic No. 1 Vaults, partially below sea level. At 40%, with light peat smoke, honey, citrus and sea salt — Bowmore from the ground up.

Tasting notes

Nose

Light peat smoke, honey and a little citrus. A salty sea breeze and a hint of vanilla. Inviting and accessible.

Taste

Soft and balanced. Heather honey and ripe fruit, the smoke drawing discreetly through and giving Islay character without overpowering.

Finish

Clean and medium length. A trace of honey and sea salt remain.

Specifications

Name: Bowmore 12 Year Old Version Screen Print Single Islay Malt Scotch Whisky
Distillery: Bowmore
Region/Country: Islay, Scotland
Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky
ABV: 40%
Size: 70 CL
Cask type: Ex-bourbon and sherry
Edition: Old Version – Screen Print (1990s)
EAN no.: 5010496080818

Flavour profile

Peated · Fruity · Honey · Collector · Vintage

Did you know?

Screen printing directly onto glass bottles — as used on this edition — was a popular premium packaging method in the 1980s and 1990s, particularly for the export market. It was eventually replaced by adhesive labels as production volumes increased.

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Frequently asked questions about Bowmore 12 Year Old Version

What is meant by "Old Version" for Bowmore 12 Year?

It refers to a bottle from a previous production period with older packaging and label design. These versions are discontinued and now only available as remaining stock from specialist retailers or at auction.

Is Bowmore 12 Year Old Version worth buying?

Yes, for the right buyer. Older editions of Bowmore 12 Year are sought after by collectors and flavour enthusiasts who want to experience the distillery's expression from a specific period — and potentially a slightly different flavour profile from today.

Does the Old Version taste different from today's Bowmore 12 Year?

This is debated in whisky circles. Many experienced drinkers claim older Bowmore 12 Year is more floral and complex than current releases, but this is subjective and influenced by natural variation between production batches.

What makes the screen-printed label historically interesting?

Screen printing directly onto glass was a premium packaging method for whisky export markets during the 1980s and 1990s. The Old Version label is a tangible record of that era, giving the bottle a distinctive look that separates it from modern releases.

How do I know if the bottle is in good condition?

Check the fill level (should be at the neck), the seal (intact, no signs of leakage), and the label condition. A well-stored vintage bottle should be in good drinking condition.

Is this a good gift for a whisky collector?

Yes. The combination of classic Islay single malt character and a piece of packaging history makes it a distinctive gift — particularly for someone with an interest in Bowmore or the evolution of Scotch whisky presentation.