Product Description:
Bruichladdich Octomore 15.3 Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky is a true powerhouse of flavour, peated to an intense 307.2 PPM, making it the second most heavily peated release in Octomore’s history. This extraordinary whisky is made from 100% Islay-grown Concerto barley sourced from Octomore Farm, located just 2 miles from the distillery. The 15.3 expression is a complex and robust whisky, balancing formidable peat smoke with the ripe fruit character that comes from patient distillation.
Matured in a combination of first-fill bourbon casks and first-fill Oloroso hogsheads from Fernando de Castilla in Jerez, Spain, this whisky showcases a unique interplay of sweet malty notes, burnt sugar, creamy vanilla, and citrus fruits, all wrapped in earthy, intense peat smoke. The salty sea spray that kisses the barley evokes a true sense of place, bringing the essence of Islay into every dram. Octomore 15.3 is not just a whisky; it’s a symphony of flavour, a bold and dynamic expression of the terroir, and a remarkable addition to the Octomore series.
“A phenomenal force of flavour and an Octomore bursting with character. The 15.3 brings together heavyweight peating levels with variable harvests from one singular farm on Islay. A symphony of flavour wrapped in earthy, intense peat smoke – this is Octomore at a whole new level.” – Adam Hannett
Age - 5 Years
Maturation Profile - First-fill bourbon casks, first-fill Oloroso hogsheads
Phenol Level - 307.2 PPM
Barley Provenance - 100% Islay-grown Concerto barley from Octomore Farm
Distillation - Distilled in 2018 from the 2017 harvest
Maker:
Bruichladdich Distillery is renowned for its bold and progressive approach to whisky-making, consistently challenging traditional whisky norms while embracing the best of Scottish craftsmanship. Since its revival in 2001, Bruichladdich has become a leader in producing exceptional single malts, with a focus on terroir and provenance. The distillery uses 100% Scottish-grown barley, with particular emphasis on the local Islay barley, reflecting the land and the unique character of the island.
Bruichladdich’s commitment to minimal intervention ensures that the whisky retains its authentic character and allows the natural elements—barley, cask, and Islay’s climate—to shine through in every bottle. The distillery’s meticulous production process, which includes slow fermentation, trickle distillation, and selective maturation, results in whiskies that are both expressive and innovative. Bruichladdich's dedication to quality, sustainability, and craftsmanship is evident in every dram, with each expression offering a distinctive taste of Islay.
Philosophy:
At Bruichladdich, the philosophy is centred around creating whisky that reflects the true essence of the land, its people, and its climate. With a focus on provenance, Bruichladdich strives to produce whiskies that are not only exceptional in quality but also thought-provoking in their expression of terroir. The distillery's approach embraces minimal intervention, allowing the natural character of the barley and the influence of the casks to shape the whisky.
Bruichladdich challenges industry conventions by rethinking the whisky-making process and staying true to the core values of sustainability and quality. By working with local Islay barley, the distillery deepens its connection to the land, producing whiskies that tell a story of place, heritage, and innovation. Bruichladdich’s commitment to these principles ensures that each whisky, whether peated or unpeated, reflects the unique spirit of Islay and the distillery’s unwavering pursuit of excellence.
Tasting Notes:
NOSE
Peat Smoke, Burnt Sugar, Vanilla, Citrus
The nose opens with powerful peat smoke, backed by a sweetness of burnt sugar and smooth vanilla. Hints of citrus fruits emerge, adding a refreshing brightness to the bold smoky character.
PALATE
Ripe Fruit, Malty Sweetness, Intense Peat
A full-bodied palate, where ripe fruit and malty sweetness come to the forefront, balanced by the intense peat smoke that Octomore is known for. The richness of the spirit is complemented by the smoothness of oak and the complexity of the cask influence.
FINISH
Earthy, Salty, Lingering Smoke
The finish is long and earthy, with lingering peat smoke, a touch of salt from the Islay sea air, and a gentle sweetness that balances the intensity of the peat. The oak influence is subtle but adds depth and complexity to the dram.
The Finer Details
Style - Scotch Whisky
Country - Scotland
Region - Islay
Bottle Size - 700ml
ABV - 61.3%
