Octomore 11.1

Octomore 11.1, 5 YO, 59.4 %

Here is one of the latest batch of Octomore über peated whisky from Bruichladdich. The Octomore 11.1 is peated to 139.6 ppm. It was distilled in 2014 and bottled in 2020. A total of 30000 bottles were released.

The Octomore 11.1 was distilled using Scottish Concerto and Propino barley, then matured in 1st fill American oak whiskey casks from Jack Daniel's, Jim Beam and Heaven Hill.

You can buy the Octomore 11.1 in Norway at NOK 2080 (12300701), and in the UK at around GBP 130.

I tasted this whisky completely blind, having received a sample from a friend (thanks, Peter!). The following are my tasting notes unedited. I hit the nail more or less, but I guess Octomore is one of the easier whiskies to taste blind as such. Anyways, it was a fun hour.

I guess this was a bourbon cask matured whisky, around 6-8 years old, and around ~56+ % ABV. I guessed Caol Ila or Laphroaig at first, but then thought better of it as I found no medicinal notes here. I was then more and more convinced this had to be an Octomore.

Nose: Peaty, earthy and maritime on first sniff. Softly vegetal, with added green herbal notes. Tomato plant and hints of cheese. Now this is interesting. With time I also pick up vanilla, citrus and hints of orchard fruits in the background.

Taste: Creamy and full bodied. Spicy upfront, then it quickly mellows out. Creamy vanilla, salt, soot and wood smoke. Chili as well as black and white pepper. It has a nice, tingling burn to it.

Finish: Medium long finish. Tongue numbing, this one. Really packing a spicy and peaty punch. Citrus and vanilla, and mild oaky notes in the end.

Comment: A fiery youngster for you peat loving fishermen out there.

Score 87/100

Sláinte!
-Thomas