The Octomore Series Fifteen trio showcases the brand’s commitment to crafting super-heavily peated whiskies with unmatched complexity and intrigue. Since its debut in 2008, Octomore single malt has challenged traditional whisky conventions. Aged for five years, always heavily peated, and bottled near cask strength, its unexpected elegance has earned it the title of “The Impossible Equation”. This groundbreaking series pushes the limits of whisky production, examining the effects of terroir, cask management, and varying peat levels on the final flavour, with each expression offering its own unique character.
This year’s range includes Octomore 15.1, 15.2, and 15.3, each offering a unique exploration of barley, cask type, and maturation, while defying expectations of what a heavily peated whisky can achieve. “Octomore is an experiment”, says Bruichladdich Distillery Head Distiller, Adam Hannett, “it is purposely designed to spark intrigue and prove the unimaginable.”
Octomore 15.1
The “backbone” of the series, Octomore 15.1 is distilled from 100% Scottish barley, malted to 108.2 PPM and bottled at 59.1% ABV. It showcases the delicate balance of intense smoke, cask type, and spirit that defines the entire Octomore range. Staying true to the B Crop distillery’s commitment to sustainability, this whisky has matured in a blend of first-fill bourbon barrels and reused, re-charred ex-bourbon casks – giving new life to these barrels and extracting as much character from the wood as possible. Its amber-gold colour reflects the vibrant life imparted by its casks.
As the foundation of each Octomore series, 15.1 serves as the essential benchmark from which the other expressions evolve. The result is a bold, uncompromising single malt that reveals the powerful influence of peat smoke, with smooth vanilla custard, sweet charred oak, and the signature Octomore strength of character.
Aroma
Caramel and bright citrus on the nose, elegantly enveloped in Octomore’s signature dry, earthy peat smoke. Notes of spicy aniseed, creamy vanilla, and smooth custard unfold, enhanced by hints of tropical fruit, geranium, and a touch of ginger that beautifully complement the sweet malt.
Palate
An initial burst of heat is skillfully balanced by sweet, dry malt and robust earthy smoke. A refreshing blend of mango, banana, and apricot jam weaves through the bold peat, rounded off with creamy vanilla custard and rich toffee. Adding a drop of water reveals the smoke’s depth, introducing subtle marine nuances and the warmth of sunlit sand.
Finish
A warming embrace of peat smoke lingers gently, accompanied by the sweetness of vanilla and charred oak, balanced by a fresh marine crispness that adds an intriguing, vibrant contrast.
Octomore 15.2
Octomore 15.2 reveals the significant impact of cask maturation on the final spirit, offering a compelling comparison to its 15.1 counterpart. Distilled from the same batch of Scottish-grown barley and malted to 108.2 PPM, the 15.2 is matured in a unique combination of second-fill wine and bourbon casks, then finished in first-fill Cognac casks. This combination brings layers of intrigue, resulting in a complex yet remarkably smooth single malt Scotch. Hints of nutmeg, toasted oak, and caramel add depth, while Octomore’s delicate floral notes shine through.
Aroma
Bright notes of sweet citrus, lime zest, and lemon meringue pie greet the nose, evolving into toasted oak and a subtle touch of earthy smoke. Vibrant tropical fruits add liveliness, complemented by woody spices, smoked honey, toasted bread, and rich roasted coffee.
Palate
Lusciously smooth and viscous, the whisky delivers layers of vanilla custard, caramel, and toffee, lifted by a hint of black pepper. Charred oak, cinnamon, and a whisper of nutmeg deepen the complexity, while pear drops and dried apricot cut through the signature Octomore peat smoke.
Finish
An unmistakable maritime essence emerges, with waves of earthy peat smoke lingering, leaving a lasting, savory impression that evokes the rugged coastline.
Octomore 15.3
The heavyweight of the trio, the Octomore 15.3 boasts an extraordinary 307.2 PPM, making it the second most heavily peated Octomore ever. Grown just under two miles from the distillery and shaped by the island’s salty sea breeze, the Islay barley adds a malty sweetness that brings a true sense of its place. Harvested at the Octomore Farm, it matures in first-fill bourbon barrels and Oloroso hogsheads from Jerez, Spain. Bottled at 61.3% ABV, its intense peat is balanced by smoked cinder toffee and malted barley sugar on the nose.
“The goal is never to intentionally create the most super-heavily peated single malt whisky in the world, but rather an extraordinary dram which demonstrates the perfect alchemy of peat, maturation, barley varietal and cask type. And that’s Octomore 15.3 for me,” says Adam Hannett.
Aroma
Smoked cinder toffee, rich malted Islay barley sugar, and honey take center stage, harmonised by fresh citrus. Layers of dried fruit and crushed seashells intertwine with Octomore’s signature peat smoke, while hints of cloves, toasted nuts, and coconut add depth and intrigue. Notes of butterscotch, brown sugar, and warm bread underscore the cereal-forward character of this single malt whisky.
Palate
Despite its high strength, Octomore 15.3 offers a surprisingly soft and velvety texture. Butterscotch and creamy vanilla highlight its smooth profile, complemented by dried fruit and sweet orange zest. Waves of dry smoke blend seamlessly with toasted oak and the sweetness of locally grown barley sugar, creating a complex and satisfying experience.
Finish
A lingering finish of burnt sugar, coconut, and a hint of delicate sea spray, with the final touch of earthy peat smoke that endures, leaving a lasting impression on the senses.
A testament to Islay
Each Octomore single malt Scotch whisky is crafted exclusively on Islay, where it is conceived, distilled, matured, and bottled. The whisky is un-chill filtered and free from any added colour, preserving its natural integrity and exceptional character. Available now at select retailers, the Octomore Series Fifteen invites whisky enthusiasts to experience the art of balance, complexity, and innovation that defines the spirit of Bruichladdich.
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