Here at Fine Drams we absolutely love Bruichladdich, and perhaps love their Octomore range the most of what they do. Octomore have made their name by being some of the peatiest whiskies around, however these have usually been youthful-yet-delicious affairs. This expression maintains the peatiness but adds an extra layer of maturity and complexity from a little more time in the cask. The barley is peated to an extraordinary 167 ppm, whilst the spirit is matured in a mixture of former Bourbon barrels and casks which have held Grenache Blanc white wine. This adds a delicious sweet grapey note to this dram, that pairs perfectly with the phenomenal peat of the whisky. The nose brings huge waves of earthy peat, with a slight floral note that is common to unpeated Bruichladdichs. Chocolate, lemon peel and grape juice follow, with some raspberry lemonade. The palate is thick and slightly hot, as one would expect from 57.3% ABV, with a tremendous toasted oak note, and a little almond. Peat is, of course, at the fore – a thick, chewy smoke. Grapes and peppered spice build, with some sweet vanilla custard and clear honey flavours. The finish is tremendously long, with wisps of smoke that last and last. Another cracker from Bruichladdich, arguably the finest Octomore yet.

• Product type
  Single Malt
• Distillery / brand
  Octomore
• Country
  Scotland
• Region
  Islay
• Bottler
  Distillery Bottling
• Bottling date
  2016
• Age
  10 years old
• Non-chillfiltered
  Yes
• Natural colour
  Yes
• SKU
  023586