Bruichladdich Octomore Edition 15.2 Scotch Whisky
The Bruichladdich Octomore Edition 15.2 is a heavily peated Islay single malt Scotch whisky, part of the 15th annual release from the distillery. 1 This bold spirit was distilled in 2018 from 100% Scottish Mainland Concerto barley and boasts a significant peat level of 108.2 PPM (Phenol Parts per Million), delivering a pronounced smokiness. 2 Aged for 5 years on the Isle of Islay, its maturation journey is particularly unique: initially matured in a combination of 42% second-fill wine casks and 58% second-fill bourbon casks, the spirit was then recasked into first-fill Cognac casks in 2023 for the remainder of its maturation. Bottled at a cask strength of 57.9% ABV, it is non-chill filtered and retains its natural colour.
Tasting Notes (from various sources):
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Nose: Often described as gorgeous and loaded with sweet notes like apple, pears, honey, almond, and sweet grape, along with white grape, tobacco, and lovely tannin. Some detect sweet citrus, lime zest, and lemon meringue pie, followed by toasted oak and a hint of earthy smoke, and a medley of tropical fruit.
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Palate: Rich and viscous, with candied fruit, ginger, white grape, orange peel, sweet buttercream, brioche, and almond. The signature fat, funky, rich meaty wood smoke of Octomore is prominent. Some find vanilla custard, caramel, toffee, and a crack of black pepper, alongside charred oak, cinnamon, and nutmeg, with pear drops and dried apricot cutting through the peat smoke.
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Finish: Long, syrupy, and fascinating, with notes of plum, pear, fig, white grape, tobacco, brioche, and toffee. A distinct maritime quality with salt spray and lingering peat embers is often noted.
Awards: Bruichladdich Octomore Edition 15.2 has received recognition for its quality and unique character, including:
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Gold Medal at the International Wine & Spirit Competition (IWSC) 2024.
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Gold Medal at the World Whiskies Awards (WWA) 2024 in the "Islay Single Malt 12 Years & Under" category.
Overall Impression: Bruichladdich Octomore Edition 15.2 is presented as a bold and brash whisky, yet simultaneously elegant. The distinctive maturation in wine, bourbon, and first-fill Cognac casks adds significant complexity while retaining the powerful peat character that Octomore is known for. It's a whisky that balances the intense smokiness with a surprising array of fruit and sweet notes, making it a decadent and intriguing dram for peat enthusiasts.
