The Islay barley used in Octomore 14.3, grown just two miles from the distillery on Octomore farm, delivers a cereal-forward single malt – celebrating the profound impact of the natural, raw ingredient and the renaissance of the farming community who grew it.
Head Distiller, Adam Hannett, has expertly coaxed the flavour from the Islay barley in this high-provenance single malt. Matured in a combination of first-fill ex-American whiskey casks and second-fill wine casks, the oak influences but never dominates the grain - capturing the terroir and unique flavour of the Islay barley.
Aromas of hot, sweet mash are unmistakable on the nose, with the soft, biscuit notes of the malted barley complementing the earthy peat smoke. While smouldering peat lingers, creamy porridge and cereal notes of the Islay barley are balanced with butterscotch, honeycomb and a hint of vanilla.
Tasting Notes:
- Color: Pure gold
- Nose: Transporting you to the Bruichladdich Distillery courtyard, the aromas of hot, sweet mash are unmistakable on the nose. This soft, biscuity malt is followed by peat smoke and an assortment of sweet, stoned fruits, with ripe apricots, peach and honey-drizzled pears. Candied lemon peels add a hint of citrus, balanced with butterscotch, honeycomb, chocolate and vanilla ice cream.
- Palate: Delicate oak notes immediately come through, followed by the presence of smouldering peat. Floral hints of gorse and honeysuckle rise above the malty Islay-grown barley, which is rich and sweet with creamy porridge and cereal notes. The structure of the French oak, together with the sweet vanilla and toffee of the American oak, combine beautifully, bringing a harmonious balance to the palate.
- Finish: Malted barley and earthy smoke dominate, followed by lingering notes of sweet barley sugar. Caramel and vanilla add a final touch of rounded sweetness.
