Nowhere is the dualism of their Octomore super heavily peated series more pertinent than in their .1 edition. Never as expected, delicate but powerful, this is unadulterated heavy smoke balanced with their vivacious and dynamic, fruity and floral distillate.
While Octomore in itself does not conform to tradition, their Head Distiller Adam Hannett is inclined to mature Octomore .1 editions solely in ex-American whiskey casks for 5 vibrant years. Octomore 14.1 is the necessary control for the rest of the series, as experiments within an experiment, but their baseline should not be underestimated. Mainland grown Scottish barley is distilled in a patient and considered trickle.
The base for this latest series showcases the delicate and intricate balance between smoke, malt, cask and maturation – resulting in an all-encompassing drinking experience. Matured for five years in first-fill ex-American whiskey casks, the 14.1 shows the power and potential of its essential raw ingredients. Sweet caramel and vanilla open on the nose, with bright citrus cutting through Octomore’s signature smoke – elevated with roasted coffee and subtle spice.
The backbone of the 14th annual Octomore series, the character of the 14.1 offers a necessary comparison from which the other expressions alternate and evolve. Distilled in 2017 from Concerto barley from the 2016 Scottish harvest, this whisky was matured for 5 years in first-fill ex-American whiskey casks. Bottled at 59.6% and 128.9ppm.
Light Amber in colour, the nose starts with smoked vanilla, sweet caramel, and toffee notes open on the nose, with sooty smoke balanced with delicate coconut and flaked almonds. There is an unmistakable earthy smokiness and a hint of citrus, with lemon meringue pie cutting through rich barbeque pork. There is bright citrus, smoke and a distinct minerality come through on the palate, followed by charred oak and beach bonfire embers. Toffee and creamy vanilla are balanced with the earthy smoke, with bright notes of pear, gooseberry fool and green apple simultaneously adding brightness and depth. Roasted coffee, hints of clove and nutmeg begin to come to the fore, with a gentle hint of heather honey. Butterscotch and vanilla are balanced with Octomore’s signature earthy peat smoke and a hint of salt spray, with burnt heather and gorse flowers settling on the finish.
Each of the 14s has its own distinct character while staying true to the Octomore DNA, this series showcases what can be achieved when we consider every element which contributes to the depth, balance and complexity of each drop of whisky. – Adam Hannett, Head Distiller.
The Finer Details
Style – Scotch Whisky
Country – Scotland
Region – Islay
Bottle Size – 700ml
ABV – 59.6%
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