Bowmore No. 1

I'm judging this based on price. I paid £20 against an rrp of around £32. The 12 year old, especially on offer, is a decent everyday drop. The whisky is comforting and pleasant with that touch of smoke to keep the toper interested. I like it. Number 1 is the same but so much less. The nose is benign. There is a bit of smoke and a nibble of vanilla. The taste is (top note) peat (mid note) vanilla and generic sweet. There is little from then on. The aftertaste revisits smoke and there's a nudge of youthful alcohol burn (it is NAS). Then... Well, it just ends. A timid drink designed to be inoffensive and as such is a success. Most punters will enjoy it. Number 1 is a decent first foray into Islay. I would be disappointed had I paid the higher price.

Surprised at the negative reviews here, I am thinking the opposite: rich peaty, smokey flavor with a strong aftertaste.

Smokey & Sweet