Bruichladdich Octomore 15.1 Super-Heavily Peated Islay Single Malt

CRITICAL ACCLAIM:

“Bruichladdich’s ultra-peated Octomore consistently delivers refined iterations of Islay smoke, and the first single malt in its 15th release is no exception. The nose is wrapped in smoke, bringing to mind a barbecue with all its charcoal, hot dog, meatloaf glaze, and ketchup sweetness. Smoke drifts by on the palate, joined here by white pepper, crème brûlée, and toasted sugar. A surprising hint of mint on the finish, though it’s soon overtaken by ash and grilled meat.” - 94 PTS, WHISKY ADVOCATE (12/2024)

PRODUCER NOTES:

OVERVIEW: “The backbone of each Octomore series, the 15.1 is the necessary comparison from which the other expressions oscillate. Laying bare the profound influence of high intensity peat smoke, the spirit has matured in a combination of first fill bourbon barrels and re-charred ex-bourbon casks, mindfully extracting as much character from the wood as possible. The result is a raw and uncompromising single malt whisky which demonstrates Octomore’s refined strength of character, balancing smooth vanilla custard and sweet charred oak with heady peat smoke.”

TASTING: “COLOUR - Winter Sun; NOSE - Caramel and vibrant citrus open on the nose, delicately wrapped in Octomore’s dry, earthy peat smoke. Spicy aniseed, vanilla and smooth custard follow, with a tropical fruit, geranium and a hint of ginger complementing the sweet malt; PALATE - Immediate heat on the palate is balanced with sweet dry malt and earthy smoke. A refreshing medley of mango, banana and apricot jam cuts through the heady peat, beautifully rounded with vanilla custard and toffee. A drop of water allows the smoke to open and brings subtle marine notes and warm sand; FINISH - Peat smoke, vanilla and sweet charred oak settle on the finish, with a fresh marine crispness.”