4.8/5 with 11,500+ reviews
Octomore needs very little introduction. While Bruichladdich’s annual, small-batch series has always pushed the boundaries of peated intensity, its unexpected refinement has earned it the nickname The Impossible Equation. They’ve given their 17th collection the subtitle ‘Chromatic Signatures’, inspired by the vibrant spectrum of flavours created by their unique combinations of smoke and oak influence.
The .1 expression is always matured in American oak, acting as the yardstick to which other expressions in the series can be compared. 17.1 is a powerful opening statement, a potent marriage of smoke and char made from 100% mainland Scottish Concerto barley, malted to 81ppm, and fully matured for its five years in first fill ex-bourbon casks. It’s bottled at 59.7% abv, free from artificial colour or chill filtration. A precise, harmonious interplay of sweet malt, coastal freshness and intense, earthy peat.
Vanilla milkshake, butter tablet and warm custard tart on the nose meet pear drops and molasses on the palate, with waves of dry, earthy smoke, smouldering oak and ash and a clean, saline note cutting through the sweetness on the finish.
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