Octomore

Here we have one of the most heavily peated whisky brands in the world. With phenol levels as high as 309ppm in some expressions, Octomore is known for its exceptionally smokey and intense character. 

Octomore is produced by the Bruichladdich distillery on the Isle of Islay. It was launched in 2002 by master distiller, Jim McEwan, in contrast to the classically soft and unpeated single malts that the distillery is famed for. It takes its name from a farm in the nearby village. 

This is undoubtedly a peat monster, but it also has a more nuanced profile. As well as big smokey and medicinal notes, there are hints of fruit, vanilla and spice. Ex-bourbon or American oak barrels are almost always used for maturation, with some bottles then being finished in the likes of Sauternes, European oak and Limousine casks. The majority of bottlings are around five years old, as this is thought to be the best age for phenols.

You can try this bold Islay whisky right here at House of Malt.