Octomore Edition 16.1

Profile: The Octomore Edition 16.1 at a glance

• Octomore 16.1 - The gentle sledgehammer of Islay
• High peat content: With 101.4 ppm, heavily peated - typical Octomore, but surprisingly balanced
• Short maturation, great character: Matured for 5 years, exclusively in first-fill bourbon casks - ensures clear structure and cask character
• 100% Scottish mainland barley of the Concerto variety: Regional and traceable - in keeping with Bruichladdich's commitment to transparency
• High alcohol content: Bottled at 59.3% vol., non-chill-filtered and without coloring - pure and unadulterated
• Completely on Islay matured: The entire maturation process took place on the island of Islay – for maximum influence of the climate and sea air.

Portrait: What makes the Octomore Edition 16.1 special

They say Islay whiskies aren't for beginners. And then the Octomore 16.1 comes around the corner – not just as a door opener, but more like a battering ram with style. With 101.4 ppm peat content, 59.3% alcohol by volume, and just 5 years of cask aging, this sounds like a challenge – and it is. But as always with Bruichladdich: behind the power lies method. And craftsmanship.

The Bruichladdich Distillery has been producing whiskies since 1881 on the Hebridean island of Islay – known for its smoky whiskies, stormy coastlines, and a microclimate where weather forecasts are purely a matter of luck. Bruichladdich itself is considered the most progressive of Islay distilleries: regionality, transparency, and experimentation are paramount here – and Octomore is perhaps their boldest project.

The Edition 16.1 marks the start of the new series and relies on 100% Scottish mainland barley (Concerto) and full maturation in first-fill bourbon casks – entirely on Islay, of course. No coloring, no chill filtration – just honest whisky with plenty of steam.

Despite all its power, Octomore 16.1 isn't one-dimensional. Those who underestimate it will not only get peat smoke, but also structure, balance, and (yes, really) elegance in their glass. He's the kind of guy who shows up to a wine tasting in a motorcycle jacket—and then philosophizes with style about oak and minerality.

In short: Octomore 16.1 is not for the faint of heart - but just the thing for those who think they've tried everything. Slàinte!

Conclusion: The Octomore Edition 16.1 impressively demonstrates that high peat content and elegance aren't mutually exclusive. Despite its young age of 5 years and 101.4 ppm, this single malt is astonishingly balanced and complex. The smoke is present, but finely integrated; the combination of maritime, fruity, and spicy elements provides depth and complexity. Full maturation in first-fill bourbon casks brings structure and a clear cask imprint without overpowering the character. A powerful yet controlled Octomore - modern, precise, and full of character.

Tasting Notes: This is how the Octomore Edition 16.1 tastes like

• Nose: Fresh and maritime with aromas of sea spray, followed by an elegant, unobtrusive peat smoke. Fruity impressions are reminiscent of an orchard, accompanied by dried heather and chamomile. In the background, sweet nuances of vanilla bean, roasted almonds, and toffee emerge, along with spicy hints of cedarwood, smoked paprika, and a clear note of iodine.
• Palate: The first impression is characterized by soft peat smoke, combined with sweet salted caramel. Fruity notes of melon and apricot provide balance, accompanied by malt sugar and a pleasant spice of cinnamon and star anise. Other aromas such as sea salt, toffee, chocolate, and coconut add depth. A subtle earthy minerality lends structure.
• Finish: Very long and intense with persistent peat smoke. Peppery spice (black pepper), sweet toffee, and salty notes linger. The finish is complex, balanced, and leaves a lasting impression.