Bruichladdich Octomore 17.3 - 70cl/60.9%

Distillery history:Bruichladdich Distillery was founded on Islay in 1881, closed in the 1990s and reopened in 2001. Octomore was developed in the early 2000s by Jim McEwan and the team as the super-heavily peated style, known for extreme phenol levels and precise distillation. The first release appeared around 2008, emphasising balance between peat and fruit.

Whisky notes:This is Octomore 17.3, made from 100% Islay Concerto barley grown in Irene’s Field on Octomore Farm, peated to 132.1 PPM. It was fully matured for five years in first-fill bourbon barrels and second-fill European oak casks that previously held Ribera del Duero, Sauternes, Eiswein and Syrah. Bottled at 60.9% ABV, non-chill filtered and with no added colour. It highlights Islay provenance and terroir.

Tasting notes:Nosing: coastal peat and sea salt, with tar, malt, green apple and lemon peel.Palate: salted caramel, smoked apple and toasted coconut, earthy peat and citrus oils.Finish: long and dry, with ashy smoke and lingering light coastal salinity.