Unveiled in 2014, Octomore 06.3 Islay Barley was made with barley grown on Islay. In fact, the crop was grown in the field known as Lorgba on Octomore farm! As ever with Bruichladdich's Octomore expressions, it's heavily, heavily peated, with the 06.3 sitting at a massive 258 PPM. It's not the thump to the head with a peat block that you might be expecting; Bruichladdich have produced a hugely flavoursome and hugely impressive whisky with real depth and elegance. And, well, yes, plenty of peat, too.
This bottle was part of a private collection - if you'd like more detailed photos just get in touch!
If you like experimenting with unique scotches, then you owe it yourself to splurge on this bottle. It is something special and the combination of flavors is unlike anything else. Yes, big peat. But much more than that. A little splash of water opens up a world of complexity.
Just opened my bottle last week, and the reviews below are spot on, especially regarding the toffee notes. The only down for me is the shockingly poor bottle design - definitely made for people with plush apartments!
The best Octomore so far. Can only agree with the "depth and elegance" and the peat is outstanding. Give it 5 -10 minuets to open up and the peat takes a step back to allow the other tiny changes in the glass. Lovely stuff. CM
One of the most underrated Octomore's probably the best one I've had, If it weren't for the price this would be my go to scotch, it's complex and the Russian Toffee (their words) is very very prevalent, moreseo then the peat despite the 258ppm. Simply one of the best scotches I've had to date, its more complex then the black art (which is unpeated and tastes like a highlands - sweet - but also an amazing scotch). Best Octomore to date, this should be a static release. I've been through two bottles so far. If you like a complex scotch and enjoy any of the peated ones, this one is worth the buck. I say go for it!
Yes, it's a fair bit of outlay for a 5 year old whisky, but there's a weight and complexity here that far belies the age. Bruichladdich would claim it's the super-slow distillation and who am I to argue. If you're used to drinking cask strength whisky it's absolutely palatable without water, astonishingly, although there is of course a little burn. I agree with the previous reviewer: it just gets better and better. A fabulous whisky, the ultimate peat hit but never at the expense of the other rich flavours. I don't begrudge the price one iota - that says it all.
