OCTOMORE - 16.1 - Edition 2025 - 59.3%
Octomore 16.1 – Edition 2025, bottled at 59.3%, is a further demonstration of the power and technical precision of the Bruichladdich distillery, based on the island of Islay. Known as the world's peatiest whisky, Octomore embodies the extreme exploration of malt and fire, but with a rigorous balance and purity that is the signature of master distiller Adam Hannett.
Distilled in 2017 from Scottish barley harvested in 2016, this 130.8 ppm peated single malt was aged entirely in first-fill American oak casks before being bottled at cask strength, without chill filtration or coloring. Islay's maritime climate and long rest by the sea give the distillate a unique saline tension, subtly softening the intensity of the peat.
The nose reveals a striking complexity: sweet ashy smoke, creamy vanilla, toasted oak, and heather honey, enhanced by notes of candied lemon and butterscotch. On the palate, the power of the cask strength asserts itself energetically, but without being brutal. Flavors of warm peat, dark chocolate, toasted hazelnut, and dried fruit are balanced in an oily, ample framework. The long, maritime finish expresses nuances of iodine, ash, and smoky wood, with a mouthwatering and harmonious persistence.
An Octomore of exemplary purity, less demonstrative than brutal: a study in the contrast between intensity and clarity, typical of the Bruichladdich approach. To be enjoyed slowly, neat or with a few drops of water to reveal its aromatic depth.
Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky – Islay – Heavily Peated (130.8 ppm) – 100% American oak casks – Cask Strength (59.3% vol.) – 2025 Edition