Octomore Edition 16.2 — Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky
Octomore is Bruichladdich's exploration of the outer limits of heavily peated whisky — and Edition 16.2 takes that inquiry in a distinctly nuanced direction. Distilled from 100% Scottish Mainland Concerto barley, harvested in 2018 and distilled in 2019, the 16.2 was peated to 101.4 PPM — placing it among the most intensely peated whiskies produced anywhere in the world. Yet peat, as Bruichladdich has always argued, is only one part of the story.
Where the 16.2 diverges from the series backbone is in its maturation. The spirit spent its formative years in Oloroso and Bordeaux casks — a pairing of Spanish oxidative richness and Bordeaux-influenced fruit depth — before being transferred, in its final year, into Madeira and Portuguese Moscatel casks. This late-stage finishing is the source of the 16.2's remarkable character: the campfire smoke that defines Octomore does not disappear, but it is met by roasted nuts, caramelised sugar and concentrated dried fruits drawn from some of the world's most intensely sweet wine-cask traditions.
Distillery Notes
100% Scottish Mainland Concerto barley. 2018 harvest. Distilled 2019. 5 years old. 101.4 PPM. Initially matured in Oloroso and Bordeaux casks; finished in Madeira and Portuguese Moscatel casks during the final year. Bottled at cask strength — 58.1% ABV, 700mL.
Tasting Profile
Powerful campfire smoke underpins caramelised sugar, roasted nuts and concentrated dried fruits. The finishing casks contribute remarkable sweetness and complexity without taming the characteristic Octomore peat. Rich, layered and long on the finish.
Serving
Best enjoyed neat or with a small splash of still water to open the spirit. Allow a few minutes in the glass before nosing. A wide-bowled Glencairn or copita glass works well at room temperature.
Octomore Edition 16.2. Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky. 100% Scottish Mainland Concerto barley, 2018 harvest, distilled 2019, 5 years old. 101.4 PPM. Initially matured in Oloroso and Bordeaux casks; finished in Madeira and Portuguese Moscatel casks during the final year. Bottled at cask strength, 58.1% ABV, 700mL.
