The Octomore 15 Series: A Symphony of Peat and Provenance
Nestled on the rugged shores of Islay, Bruichladdich Distillery stands as a beacon of innovation, tradition, and uncompromising authenticity. Known as the Progressive Hebridean Distillers, they rebel against the conventions of the Scotch whisky industry, producing spirits that are not just crafted but deeply rooted in their island home. With a commitment to terroir, provenance, and transparency, Bruichladdich distills, matures, and bottles entirely on Islay, embracing the island’s unique character. Each spirit tells the story of their heritage while pushing the boundaries of the craft. From their handcrafted single malts to pioneering gin, Bruichladdich is driven by a passion for the art of distilling, infusing every bottle with a true sense of place.
The Octomore 15 Series is a remarkable collection of single malts, each demonstrating the distillery’s mastery of peated whisky and commitment to using the finest Scottish barley. From the balanced complexity of 15.1 to the bold intensity of 15.3, these whiskies offer a journey into the world of high-peat whisky, showcasing elegance, strength, and a true sense of place.
Octomore 15.1: The Benchmark of Peat
Peated to 108.2 PPM and matured in a combination of bourbon and re-charred ex-bourbon casks, Octomore 15.1 sets the standard for the series. Balancing smooth vanilla custard and sweet charred oak with earthy peat smoke, this whisky demonstrates the distillery’s ability to deliver refined strength of character. As the backbone of the 15th series, it offers a raw yet elegant taste of the profound influence of peat smoke.
Octomore 15.2: A Complex Expression of Elegance
Crafted from the same batch of Scottish barley as its predecessor, Octomore 15.2 brings a new level of sophistication. This single malt is matured in American oak, red wine, and French ex-Cognac casks, which impart layers of complexity. Hints of nutmeg, toasted oak, and caramel add smoothness, while delicate floral notes emerge on the palate. The Cognac cask finish gives 15.2 a powerful yet elegant character, making it a fascinating counterpart to the robust 15.1.
Octomore 15.3: A Phenomenal Force of Peat
At a staggering 307.2 PPM, Octomore 15.3 is one of the most heavily peated whiskies ever released by the distillery. Made from 100% Islay barley grown at Octomore Farm, less than two miles from the distillery, it combines formidable smoke with the sweet, malty richness of homegrown barley. Matured in bourbon casks and Spanish Oloroso hogsheads, 15.3 delivers a symphony of flavour, bursting with ripe fruit, creamy vanilla, and intense peat smoke—capturing the essence of its Islay origins.
Blog posts
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, by Tam Le Reach for the Stars with Remy Martin
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, by Tam Le A Fresh Perspective: Jura Distillery’s Latest Release
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, by Tam Le The Octomore 15 Series: A Symphony of Peat and Provenance
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, by Tam Le The Dalmore 2006 & 2009 Vintages: A Duo of Excellence
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, by James Pham Celebrating the Legacy of Big Peat and Blair Athol's Unique Expressions
