Product Description:
Bruichladdich Octomore 15.2 Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky is a bold yet refined expression, peated to 108.2 PPM and distilled from 100% Scottish barley. It shares its heritage with the 15.1, but what sets the 15.2 apart is its unique maturation process. The whisky begins its journey in a combination of second-fill bourbon and red wine casks, then undergoes a remarkable finish in first-fill French ex-cognac casks. This trifecta of oak adds complexity and elegance, resulting in a whisky that is both powerful and graceful.
The 15.2 demonstrates the finesse that oak imparts on whisky, with smooth notes of nutmeg, toasted oak, and caramel rounding out the palate. The delicate floral character of Octomore emerges beautifully, while the dry peat smoke and mineral qualities give the whisky its signature intensity. The result is a dram that offers layers of intrigue, with a balance of rich flavours and the elegance of well-aged oak. A must-try for connoisseurs seeking a complex and intriguing expression of the Octomore series.
“The initial maturation in American oak, before finishing in French oak ex-cognac casks, adds a wealth of complexity. The softness of the oak is unmissable on the palate, working with the spirit’s mineral quality and dry peat smoke beautifully.” – Adam Hannett
Age - 5 Years
Maturation Profile - Second-fill bourbon casks, second-fill red wine casks, finished in first-fill French ex-cognac casks
Phenol Level - 108.2 PPM
Barley Provenance - 100% Scottish Mainland Concerto barley
Distillation - Distilled in 2018 from the 2017 harvest
Maker:
Bruichladdich Distillery is a pioneer in the whisky industry, known for its commitment to challenging traditional whisky-making conventions and producing exceptional single malts. Since its reopening in 2001, Bruichladdich has become renowned for its focus on terroir, provenance, and the artistry of crafting whisky. The distillery's philosophy is rooted in the belief that the best whisky begins with the best ingredients, and for Bruichladdich, that means using 100% Scottish-grown barley.
Bruichladdich’s approach is defined by minimal intervention, allowing the natural character of the barley and the influence of the land to shine through in every dram. The distillery’s meticulous methods include slow fermentation, trickle distillation, and maturation in a carefully chosen suite of casks that contribute to the unique flavour profiles of each whisky. Bruichladdich's dedication to quality and innovation continues to set the standard for whisky-making, with each bottle reflecting the distillery's commitment to craftsmanship and the unique terroirs of Islay and beyond.
Philosophy:
At Bruichladdich, the philosophy is to challenge the norms of the whisky industry and to produce thought-provoking spirits that celebrate the connection between land, people, and whisky. The distillery is driven by the belief that whisky should reflect its terroir, and that every bottle should tell the story of its origins. Bruichladdich is committed to sustainability, provenance, and the understanding of how the agricultural ecosystem influences the flavour of whisky.
Bruichladdich’s approach to production is rooted in traditional practices, but with a modern and progressive mindset. The distillery embraces minimal intervention, allowing the whisky to evolve naturally and express its full potential. By focusing on the importance of barley, the influence of oak, and the complexity of cask maturation, Bruichladdich creates whiskies that are bold, complex, and reflective of the land from which they come. Whether crafting peated or unpeated expressions, Bruichladdich’s mission is to produce whiskies that are both innovative and true to their origins, pushing the boundaries of flavour while maintaining a deep respect for tradition.
Tasting Notes:
NOSE
Peat Smoke, Nutmeg, Caramel
An inviting nose with rich peat smoke at its core, complemented by warm, spicy nutmeg, toasted oak, and a subtle sweetness of caramel. The complexity deepens with hints of floral notes as the whisky opens up.
PALATE
Smooth Oak, Floral Notes, Dry Peat Smoke
The palate is a beautiful balance of smooth oak, nutty caramel, and the delicate floral character that is signature to Octomore. The dry peat smoke is present, but it is refined, supporting the complex layers of flavour without overwhelming the senses.
FINISH
Elegant, Mineral, Lingering Smoke
The finish is long and elegant, with a mineral quality that gives way to lingering peat smoke and a soft oak presence, leaving a lasting impression of balance and finesse.
The Finer Details
Style - Scotch Whisky
Country - Scotland
Region - Islay
Bottle Size - 700ml
ABV - 57.9%