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!
I just ordered this. I loved the last Octomore. I will let you know what my thoughts are when i have my first sip. CM
Candied peel, sticky-toffee pudding, 80% cocoa dark chocolate, crème brûlée, golden Virginia tobacco, fresh leather, fresh hay, festive spices.. on the nose. This guy is immense, he redefines the Marmite love/hate saying. Maraschino cherries, ripe pear, fresh vanilla pods, Christmas pudding, baking spices, stone fruits, raisins, creamy, dried fig, more leather, more tobacco, cognac.. on the palate. The finish is long. It isn't a thump to the head with a peat block, it's a roundhouse kick to the jaw, the 64% abv is absurdly enjoyable but if you're using saliva as your sole addition of water then it's very much like that moment in the morning where you see how long you can hold Colgate mouthwash in your mouth for before everything goes numb. The peppermint-y rich yet palatable burn by the sheer strength of this whisky brings a smile to my face & it will for you too. IMHO it gets better every time you try him. Scintillating stuff.
Best Octomore yet!
