Bruichladdich Octomore 14.1 Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky 700mL

The backbone of the 14th annual Octomore series, the character of the 14.1 offers a necessary comparison from which the other expressions alternate and evolve.

The base for this latest series showcases the delicate and intricate balance between smoke, malt, cask and maturation – resulting in an all-encompassing drinking experience.
Matured for five years in first-fill ex-American whiskey casks, the 14.1 shows the power and potential of its essential raw ingredients.

Sweet caramel and vanilla open on the nose, with bright citrus cutting through Octomore’s signature smoke - elevated with roasted coffee and subtle spice.

Tasting Notes:

Colour: Light amber.

Nose: Smoked vanilla, sweet caramel, and toffee notes open on the nose, with sooty smoke balanced with delicate coconut and flaked almonds. There is an unmistakable earthy smokiness and a hint of citrus, with lemon meringue pie cutting through rich barbeque pork.

Palate: Bright citrus, smoke and a distinct minerality come through on the palate, followed by charred oak and beach bonfire embers. Toffee and creamy vanilla are balanced with the earthy smoke, with bright notes of pear, gooseberry fool and green apple simultaneously adding brightness and depth. Roasted coffee, hints of clove and nutmeg begin to come to the fore, with a gentle hint of heather honey.

Finish: Butterscotch and vanilla are balanced with Octomore’s signature earthy peat smoke and a hint of salt spray, with burnt heather and gorse flowers settling on the finish.

" On the nose, Octomore 14.1 delivers layers and layers of dense peat: sweet smoke with grilled pineapples and hibiscus tea, phenolic peat with peeled-out tires, medicine cabinet, a distinctly oily rubber, and savory charred aromas like a beach bonfire. The palate, while still driving home the peat, is nimble and zesty with oranges and lemon, toasted peppercorns, and a heavy dose of charred grains. The finish is long and much softer, with zippy citrus taking the lead." - Shane English, Whisky Advocate (95 Points)