Brace yourself for the latest exploration into the stratosphere of peat with Octomore 16.1. As the foundational release of the 16th series from the progressive Bruichladdich distillery, this is a powerful and unapologetic super-heavily peated single malt. Crafted using 100% Scottish Mainland Concerto Barley malted to 101.4 PPM, this elegant liquid brings forth intense peat smoke with surprising delicacy. Find this force of nature through our preferred online retail partner, Nestor Liquor.
Following the strict formula of the iconic ".1" series, Octomore 16.1 is aged for five years in first-fill ex-bourbon barrels. Bottled at a formidable cask strength of 118.6 proof (59.3% ABV), this whisky is a pure and unadulterated expression of the land, the barley, and the cask, showcasing a remarkable complexity that belies its age.
Key Specifications:
Product: Octomore 16.1 Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky
The Octomore series is Bruichladdich's ongoing experiment to answer the question, "What if?" It is a challenge to the conventional wisdom of the Scotch industry, proving that age is just a number and that a super-heavily peated whisky can be much more than just a wall of smoke. Named after a small, now-defunct farm distillery that once operated above the village of Port Charlotte, Octomore has become a global cult phenomenon, with each annual release eagerly anticipated by its loyal following.
Tasting Notes: A Symphony of Smoke and Sweetness
Nose: An inviting bouquet of honeyed melon and fresh apricot, beautifully layered with a distinct maritime saltiness and a powerful, yet elegant, column of peat smoke.
Palate: A wonderfully rich and oily mouthfeel. The initial taste is a wave of sweet salted caramel, which then leads into decadent notes of chocolate and creamy coconut, all accompanied by a soft wave of earthy minerality.
Finish: The finish is exceptionally long and memorable. The intense, lingering peat smoke fades slowly to reveal a final, sophisticated whisper of sweet oak and sea salt.
Why Octomore 16.1 is a Must-Have:
The Benchmark for Peat: The ".1" edition is the definitive expression of each Octomore series, showcasing the purest profile of super-heavily peated Scottish barley and American oak.
A Masterclass in Balance: A perfect example of how intense peat smoke can be masterfully balanced with sweet, complex fruit and confectionary notes to create a harmonious whisky.
Uncut & Unfiltered: You are tasting this single malt exactly as it was in the cask—at its natural high proof for maximum flavor and texture.
A Highly Coveted Collectible: Each annual Octomore release is a limited and sought-after item, with a dedicated global following of peat fanatics.
This is a whisky that challenges the senses and rewards them with an unforgettable experience. Contact Nestor Liquor today to inquire about securing a bottle of the legendary Octomore 16.1.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: What does "PPM" mean?
A: PPM stands for "Phenol Parts Per Million," which is a measurement of the peat smoke's influence on the malted barley. A typical peated Islay whisky might be around 30-50 PPM. At 101.4 PPM, Octomore 16.1 is classified as "super-heavily peated."
Q: What is the significance of the ".1" in the name?
A: In each annual Octomore series (e.g., the 16th series), there are multiple releases (.1, .2, .3, etc.). The ".1" is always the foundational release, defined by being 5 years old, made from 100% Scottish barley, and aged exclusively in ex-American whiskey casks.
Q: How can a 5-year-old whisky be so complex?
A: This is the central philosophy of Octomore. By using the highest quality ingredients, meticulous distillation, and active, first-fill casks, they are able to create a spirit with a remarkable depth of flavor in just five years, challenging the idea that older is always better.
Q: Where can I purchase Octomore 16.1?
A: Octomore is a highly sought-after, limited annual release. We recommend contacting our preferred retail partner, Nestor Liquor, to inquire about their inventory and availability.
