Explore the rich, decadent side of super-heavily peated whisky with Octomore 16.2. As the European oak-matured counterpart to the foundational 16.1, this expression takes the same batch of Scottish barley, peated to 101.4 PPM, and sends it on a complex journey through the finest wine casks of Southern Europe. The result is a rich, complex, and deeply satisfying single malt that is a true testament to the art of maturation. Find this rare and coveted Islay whisky through our preferred online retail partner, Nestor Liquor.
Where the 16.1 explores the influence of American oak, the 16.2 is a deep dive into the world of European casks. This five-year-old spirit has been housed in a fine selection of Oloroso Sherry and Bordeaux wine casks before being finished in a combination of sweet Madeira and Portuguese Moscatel casks. Bottled at a formidable cask strength of 116.2 proof, this is a peat-lover's dream, with layers of rich fruit and spice enveloped in sweet campfire smoke.
Key Specifications:
Product: Octomore 16.2 Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky
The Octomore series is Bruichaddich'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. The ".2" editions within each series are known for showcasing the influence of European oak, often with complex wine cask maturations that create a richer, fruitier counterpoint to the classic ex-bourbon profile of the ".1" release.
Tasting Notes: A Symphony of Smoke and European Oak
Nose: A rich and inviting bouquet of caramelized sugar, roasted nuts, and dried fruits, all beautifully wrapped in a blanket of sweet campfire smoke.
Palate: A wonderfully rich, oily, and viscous mouthfeel. The initial taste is a wave of jammy dark fruit—figs, dates, and raisins—from the sherry and port-style casks. This is perfectly balanced by the earthy peat smoke and a complex layer of baking spice and toasted nuts.
Finish: The finish is exceptionally long and warming. The sweet smoke lingers beautifully, fading to reveal final, sophisticated notes of dark chocolate, leather, and sweet, dried fruit.
Why Octomore 16.2 is a Must-Have:
A Masterclass in Cask Maturation: The complex, four-cask maturation recipe creates a unique and profoundly deep flavor profile that is a dream for any Scotch enthusiast.
The Richer Side of Octomore: Showcases a different dimension of the super-heavily peated spirit, balancing the intense smoke with the rich, sweet influence of European wine casks.
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, and the ".2" editions are often Travel Retail exclusives, making them even harder to find.
This is a whisky that challenges the senses and rewards them with an unforgettable experience of rich, decadent peat. Contact Nestor Liquor today to inquire about securing a bottle of the legendary Octomore 16.2.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: What does the ".2" in the name signify?
A: In each annual Octomore series, the ".2" release is always the expression that showcases the influence of European oak, typically involving maturation or finishing in various wine or sherry casks. It is often a Travel Retail exclusive.
Q: How is this different from Octomore 16.1?
A: Both are made from the same 5-year-old, 101.4 PPM spirit. However, the 16.1 is aged exclusively in ex-American whiskey casks, giving it a profile of vanilla, honey, and citrus. The 16.2 is aged in a complex combination of Oloroso, Bordeaux, Madeira, and Moscatel casks, resulting in a much richer, darker, and more fruit-forward flavor profile.
Q: What is a Moscatel cask?
A: Moscatel is a sweet, fortified wine, similar in style to some sherries and ports. Casks that have held Moscatel are known for imparting intense notes of sweet grape, citrus, and floral character to a whisky.
Q: Where can I purchase Octomore 16.2?
A: Octomore is a highly sought-after, limited annual release, and the ".2" editions are often exclusive to Travel Retail, making them particularly difficult to find. We recommend contacting our preferred retail partner, Nestor Liquor, to inquire about their inventory and availability.
