Bruichladdich Distillery Presents Octomore 14: The Latest Offering in Its Super-Heavily Peated Range
Octomore, the acclaimed super-heavily peated whisky series from Bruichladdich Distillery, has unveiled its annual edition, Octomore 14. This series introduces three experimental single malts—14.1, 14.2, and 14.3—each pushing the boundaries of whisky craftsmanship in pursuit of exceptional flavor.
Launched initially in 2008, Octomore single malts undergo a maturation period of five years, are bottled at or near cask strength, and are known for their intense peatiness.
Adam Hannett, Octomore Head Distiller, explained, "At Bruichladdich Distillery, we are committed to exploring the fundamental aspects of whisky making, including the origin of our raw ingredients, the impact of terroir, and experimenting with various casks. These fundamentals are at the core of every Octomore series, and the latest collection continues this tradition. Each of the 14s possesses a distinct character while staying true to Octomore's DNA, showcasing what can be achieved when every element contributing to the depth, balance, and complexity of each drop of whisky is considered."
Octomore 14.1, considered the cornerstone of the series, provides an essential reference point for comparing the other expressions. Distilled from 100% Scottish barley with a peat level of 128.9 PPM (phenol parts per million), this single malt matures in first-fill ex-American whiskey casks. It boasts a robust 59.6% ABV and offers enticing aromas of vanilla, sweet caramel, and subtle citrus notes amidst Octomore's signature peat smoke. The retail price is set at £140 (US$176).
Octomore 14.2, also made from 100% Scottish barley with a peat level of 128.9 PPM, takes a unique maturation path in a combination of oloroso Sherry and amarone wine casks. The marriage of Octomore's peat smoke and the oloroso casks imparts a rich, savory character to this complex 57.7% ABV single malt, with flavors of red currants, fruitcake, and roasted coffee enveloped in smoky goodness. It retails for £155 (US$195).
Completing the trio, Octomore 14.3 reflects Bruichladdich's exploration of terroir in whisky-making. Crafted exclusively from locally grown barley, it showcases the influence of barley origin on the final flavor. This "heavy weight" single malt, malted to a remarkable 214.2 PPM, matures in a combination of Bourbon casks and second-fill wine casks. At 61.4% ABV, it presents enticing aromas of hot, sweet mash, complemented by sweet vanilla, toffee, and delicate earthy smoke on the palate. It's available for £195 (US$245).
The complete Octomore 14 series can be purchased online at bruichladdich.com and through select specialist whisky retailers.
About The Octomore Range
The Octomore Range is a highly acclaimed and distinctive collection of super-heavily peated single malt whiskies produced by Bruichladdich Distillery, located on the scenic Islay island in Scotland. This range is renowned for its bold and intense peat character, which has garnered a dedicated following among whisky enthusiasts who seek robust and unique flavor experiences.
What sets the Octomore Range apart is its commitment to pushing the boundaries of peatiness. These whiskies are among the peatiest in the world, with phenol parts per million (PPM) levels often exceeding 100, and sometimes even reaching over 200. This extreme level of peat contributes to the unmistakable smoky and earthy notes that define Octomore expressions.
The Octomore Range has become a playground for experimentation within the world of whisky. Each release is marked by its distinctiveness, showcasing how variations in peat levels, cask types, and maturation periods can create a diverse array of flavors. Bruichladdich's dedication to innovation is evident in the annual editions of Octomore, with each release pushing the boundaries of what is thought possible in the realm of peated whisky.
Despite the intense peat influence, the Octomore Range is celebrated for its complexity and depth of flavor. Beyond the bold smokiness, these whiskies often reveal layers of sweetness, fruitiness, and savory notes that provide a well-rounded and multifaceted tasting experience. The balance achieved in Octomore whiskies is a testament to the skill and craftsmanship of the distillers at Bruichladdich.
As an annual release, Octomore enthusiasts eagerly anticipate each new edition, which is often met with enthusiasm and excitement. These limited releases are highly sought after by collectors and connoisseurs, and they often showcase the latest innovations and experiments from the distillery.
In summary, the Octomore Range is an extraordinary collection of super-heavily peated single malt whiskies from Bruichladdich Distillery. Known for pushing the boundaries of peatiness and flavor complexity, these annual releases continue to captivate whisky enthusiasts worldwide with their bold and innovative character. Whether you're an experienced whisky aficionado or a curious newcomer, exploring the Octomore Range offers a captivating journey into the world of peated whisky.
Explore the full Octomore Whisky Range here.
About The Bruichladdich Distillery
The Bruichladdich Distillery, located on the picturesque island of Islay off the western coast of Scotland, is a revered and storied establishment in the world of Scotch whisky. Founded in 1881, this historic distillery has a rich heritage spanning over a century. It's celebrated for its commitment to producing exceptional single malt Scotch whiskies known for their diversity and unique character.
One of the standout features of Bruichladdich is its dedication to craftsmanship and tradition. The distillery prides itself on its adherence to traditional whisky-making techniques, emphasizing the importance of quality ingredients and meticulous attention to detail. This commitment to tradition is evident in the classic copper pot stills and wooden washbacks that are integral to the whisky-making process.
Bruichladdich is known for its distinct flavor profiles, which vary from expressions with light and floral notes to those with rich and heavily peated characteristics. This diversity is a result of the distillery's various brands, each with its own approach to whisky production. Whether it's the peaty Octomore range, the unpeated Classic Laddie, or other limited releases, Bruichladdich offers a wide spectrum of whisky experiences.
Another hallmark of Bruichladdich is its emphasis on terroir and transparency. The distillery is passionate about sourcing locally grown barley and highlighting the impact of Islay's unique climate and geography on the whisky's flavor. This commitment to transparency extends to providing detailed information about each expression, including cask types, maturation periods, and even the farm where the barley was grown.
Visiting the Bruichladdich Distillery is an unforgettable experience for whisky enthusiasts. The distillery offers guided tours that provide a behind-the-scenes look at the whisky-making process, from mashing and fermentation to distillation and maturation. The tours also showcase the stunning Islay landscape, where the distillery is situated, providing a deep connection between the whisky and its natural surroundings.
Beyond its commitment to whisky, Bruichladdich is dedicated to environmental sustainability and supporting the local community. The distillery actively engages in eco-friendly practices and collaborates with local businesses and organizations. This holistic approach reflects Bruichladdich's commitment to both the quality of its whisky and the well-being of Islay.
In summary, the Bruichladdich Distillery is a revered Scottish institution known for its dedication to craftsmanship, tradition, and transparency in whisky production. With a diverse range of expressions that showcase the unique flavors of Islay, a visit to Bruichladdich offers a deep and immersive experience in the world of Scotch whisky, enriched by its rich heritage and commitment to quality.
[Image Credit: www.bruichladdich.com]
