Following a similar path to the Octomore 14.1, this 14.2 edition is also distilled from 100% Scottish Mainland barley and has been malted to the same 128.9PPM. However, the liquids diverge profoundly with the influence of wine and sherry casks on the 14.2 spirit.
With over 200 different cask types in the warehouses, Head Distiller, Adam Hannett, has selected casks that have previously held Oloroso and Amarone – with the distinct sweetness and nuttiness of this combination creating an exceptional single malt. Hailing from the renowned wine regions of Spain and Italy respectively, the spirit is then brought together in French oak, adding remarkable depth and complexity to the single malt. Octomore’s signature peak smoke notoriously pairs well with Oloroso sherry casks, with the influence of the wood adding a robust, savoury flavour to the final spirit. The oak from the Amarone casks also has a significant impact on the spirit, imparting rich, red fruit notes – giving structure and cohesion to the 14.2.
Like the 14.1 this whisky was aged for 5 years and distilled in 2017 from Concerto barley from the 2016 Scottish harvest, this whisky was matured for 4 years in the Oloroso (40%), Amarone 1st fill (16%) & Amarone 2nd fill (44%), followed by 1 year in Pauillac wine casks. Bottled at 57.7% and 128.9ppm.
Deep Amber in colour, on the nose leather, prunes, red currants and malted barley come to the fore, followed by toasted oak and hints of cinnamon, green apple and black pepper. Waves of smoke and distinct red fruits follow, complemented with cereal notes of malt and porridge. The peat smoke is dry and brooding, with a hint of burnt heather and subtle pipe tobacco from the oak. On the palate the influence of the European oak is unmissable, with a touch of dryness balanced with the vibrancy of wood spices, smoked oak and roasted coffee. Barbeque sweetness and a crack of black pepper is complemented with rich fruit cake and dried fruits. A drop of water opens the smoke and fruity sweetness from the wine casks, bringing a beautiful balance as notes of apple and pear grow with the dram. Smoked malt, smouldering oak and sea salt settle on the finish as Octomore’s signature earthy smoke lingers.
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 – 57.7%
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