A vibrant, punchy springboard for the latest Octomore 12 series. This is the 12.1 edition, meant as the base from which the other editions in the series will deviate from. This is a heavily complex dram but retains a surprising simplicity in its process. Grown from 100% Scottish Concerto barley, this spent a five-year maturation period in first-fill American whiskey casks. It was malted to 130.8ppm and is free from chill filtration and artificial colouring. Bottled at 59.9% abv, this is one hearty dram.
Expect the aromas of citrus and peat smoke to score the knockout punches on the nose, but there are also subtler notes of barley sugars, coconut, vanilla, caramel, and malty sweetness. The palate is spicy, sweet, and with a texture of syrupy honey. Flavours of apricot jam, nougat, orange zest, pear drops, and of course, a big hit of peat smoke await. The finish is lingering, with further notes of bonfire smoke, herbal notes, primrose, and caramel.