This is the Octomore 12.1 from Bruichladdich, distilled on the isle of Islay and boasting a characteristically peaty profile. Produced with 100% Scottish barley, it has been peated to 130.8PPM and matured for five years in first-fill American whiskey casks before being bottled up at a hefty 59.3% ABV. These expressions offer up oodles of peat, yet still manage to have a somewhat delicate and deliberate flavour profile – a tough balance to hit, but Bruichladdich's team are masters of doing so.
NoseGreen apples, chocolate orange, dry smoke with a hint of meatiness to it.
PalateHeathery smoke now, still subtly meaty and spicy, joined by vanilla pod and milk chocolate notes, and a touch of apricot jam.
FinishLasting brown sugar and toasted teacake