Bruichladdich Octomore Edition 15.1 represents the epitome of peated whisky, pushing the boundaries of what Islay whisky can achieve. Peated to an astounding 108.2 PPM and crafted from 100% Scottish Mainland Concerto barley, this 5-year-old single malt has been matured in a combination of first-fill bourbon barrels and re-charred ex-bourbon casks. Balancing potent peat smoke with layers of vanilla custard, charred oak, and tropical fruit, Octomore 15.1 is the backbone of the Octomore series, demonstrating raw yet refined strength.

Tasting Notes:

• Color: Winter Sun
• Nose: The aroma opens with caramel and vibrant citrus wrapped in earthy peat smoke. Spicy aniseed, vanilla, and smooth custard follow, with tropical notes of mango, geranium, and a hint of ginger.
• Palate: Initial heat meets sweet dry malt and earthy smoke. A medley of mango, banana, and apricot jam refreshes the palate, with a balancing layer of vanilla custard and toffee. A drop of water enhances the smoke, bringing subtle marine notes and a warmth reminiscent of coastal sand.
• Finish: A long finish of peat smoke, vanilla, and charred oak, complemented by a crisp marine freshness.

Key Features:

• Barley Provenance: 100% Scottish Mainland Concerto Barley
• Malting: Super heavily peated to 108.2 PPM
• Maturation: Aged 5 years in first-fill bourbon barrels and re-charred ex-bourbon casks.
• Strength: Bottled at 59.1% ABV, offering a bold, high-proof drinking experience.
• Distillation: Distilled in 2018 from the 2017 barley harvest.

As the backbone of the Octomore series, Octomore 15.1 allows whisky lovers to explore the intense influence of peat smoke and how it interacts with the natural sweetness of malt and vanilla, making it a raw yet balanced Islay experience.

FAQ Section

1. What makes Bruichladdich Octomore 15.1 unique?
Octomore 15.1 is one of the most heavily peated whiskies in the world, at 108.2 PPM, yet it maintains a delicate balance of flavors through its maturation in first-fill bourbon barrels and re-charred ex-bourbon casks. Its combination of earthy peat smoke with sweet vanilla and tropical fruit notes creates a complex, raw, and refined drinking experience.

2. How should I enjoy Bruichladdich Octomore 15.1?
This whisky is best enjoyed neat or with a few drops of water to unlock its full range of flavors. The high ABV (59.1%) and intense peat smoke can also benefit from a touch of water to mellow the heat and enhance the complexity.

3. What are the tasting notes for Bruichladdich Octomore 15.1?
The nose opens with caramel, citrus, and peat smoke, followed by vanilla custard, tropical fruit, and spice. On the palate, expect a medley of sweet dry malt, banana, apricot, and earthy smoke, rounded out with vanilla and toffee. The finish offers long-lasting peat smoke, vanilla, charred oak, and marine freshness.

4. What is the phenol level (PPM) of Bruichladdich Octomore 15.1?
The phenol level of Octomore 15.1 is 108.2 parts per million (PPM), making it one of the most heavily peated whiskies available.

5. How does Octomore 15.1 fit into the overall Octomore series?
As the “control” expression of each Octomore series, 15.1 sets the benchmark from which other Octomore expressions oscillate, allowing whisky enthusiasts to explore variations in peat, cask influence, and aging.