Octomore 15.1 (Bruichladdich), 108.2 PPM Islay Single Malt, 59.1%

Introduction

Octomore 15.1 represents the fifteenth edition of Bruichladdich’s iconic super-heavily peated single malt series, continuing its legacy as the world’s most heavily peated whisky expression. This extraordinary spirit pushes the boundaries of what’s possible in whisky production, combining extreme peat levels with Bruichladdich’s progressive approach to distillation.

Production Method

• Raw materials: Distilled using 100% Scottish-grown Concerto barley harvested in 2016, allowing full traceability from field to bottle.
• Distillation process: Slow distillation in tall, narrow-necked pot stills that create a remarkably pure spirit despite the extreme peat levels of 108.2 PPM.
• Maturation: Matured for 5 years on Islay in first-fill American whiskey casks, allowing the intense peat character to be complemented by sweet vanilla notes.
• Special techniques: Bottled at cask strength without chill filtration or caramel coloring, preserving all natural oils and esters that contribute to its complex mouthfeel.

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Initial maritime smoke with sea spray, followed by burnt heather, orchard fruits, and vanilla custard. Subtle hints of toasted oak and caramelized sugar emerge with time.
• Palate: Intense waves of peat smoke balanced with sweet butterscotch, poached pears, and citrus zest. The high ABV delivers an explosion of flavor with notes of salted caramel, dark chocolate, and charred oak.
• Finish: Remarkably long and complex, with waves of smoke, sea salt, and sweet malt. Lingering notes of bonfire embers and spiced honey that continue to evolve long after the final sip.

Recommended Serving

• Serving temperature: Room temperature (18-21°C) to fully appreciate its complex character.
• Glass recommendation: Tulip-shaped whisky glass or Glencairn to concentrate the aromas.
• Serving ideas: Best enjoyed neat initially, with a few drops of spring water added later to unlock additional flavor dimensions and soften the high ABV.
• Food pairings: Bold blue cheeses, dark chocolate with sea salt, or smoked seafood that can stand up to the intense flavor profile.

Product Specifications

• Alcohol content: 59.1% ABV (cask strength)
• Bottle size: 700ml
• Country/Region of origin: Scotland, Islay
• Certifications/Awards: Part of the acclaimed Octomore series that has consistently received high ratings from whisky critics worldwide, including multiple gold medals from the San Francisco World Spirits Competition.

Summary

A Unique Tasting Experience

Octomore 15.1 offers an unparalleled sensory experience that showcases the pinnacle of peated whisky production, creating a perfect harmony between intense smoke and refined complexity.

With strictly limited production numbers and high global demand, each batch of Octomore quickly becomes a collector’s item sought after by whisky enthusiasts worldwide.

Created under the direction of Master Distiller Adam Hannett, Octomore 15.1 continues Bruichladdich’s tradition of challenging whisky conventions and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in Scotch production.

Recognition from Connoisseurs

Whisky experts and connoisseurs consistently praise Octomore for its remarkable ability to balance extreme peat levels with complex flavor development, earning it cult status in the whisky world.

Collectors who have invested in previous Octomore releases recognize the value of adding each new expression to their collection, appreciating how each edition tells its own unique story.

The Octomore series has consistently garnered exceptional reviews and high ratings from leading publications including Whisky Advocate, Jim Murray’s Whisky Bible, and the Malt Whisky Yearbook.

From Bruichladdich to You

Bruichladdich has invested decades of expertise and passion into creating this exceptional dram, sharing the culmination of their progressive Hebridean distillery’s philosophy directly with discerning whisky lovers.

The transparent approach to production, from barley origin to bottling, creates an honest connection between the dedicated team at Bruichladdich and those who appreciate their innovative approach to whisky-making.

By experiencing Octomore 15.1, you join a community of progressive whisky enthusiasts who value authenticity, terroir, and the human touch behind every bottle of this remarkable Islay spirit.