Bruichladdich Octomore 15.2 Single Malt Scotch Whisky

Age

5 Years

Distillery

Bruichladdich Distillery

Region

Islay, Scotland

Description

Octomore 15.2 is a bold and boundary-pushing single malt from Bruichladdich, distilled in 2018 using 100% Scottish Mainland Concerto barley. This expression is peated to an intense 108.2 PPM, showcasing the distillery’s signature approach to heavily peated whisky with surprising elegance.

Matured initially in a combination of second-fill wine casks (42%) and second-fill bourbon casks (58%), the whisky undergoes a secondary maturation in first-fill French oak Cognac casks. This layered cask influence weaves complexity into the dram, balancing fiery peat with refined oak sweetness and bright fruit. Bottled at 57.9% ABV, Octomore 15.2 is a powerhouse of flavor with surprising poise.

Tasting Notes

• Appearance:
  Pale straw, reminiscent of Islay’s windswept sand dunes, reflecting its aging in well-matured refill casks.

• Aroma:
  Bursting with lime zest, lemon meringue, and charred citrus, layered over a foundation of soft peat smoke. Toasted oak, tropical fruit, smoked honey, and a faint roasted coffee edge add aromatic depth.

• Palate:
  Silky and mouth-coating, it reveals rich notes of vanilla custard, caramel, and spiced toffee. A hint of black pepper leads into layers of charred wood, cinnamon, and nutmeg, all interwoven with pear drop candy and dried apricot, cut clean by maritime salinity.

• Finish:
  Long and evocative, with briny coastal spray and lingering embers of dry peat smoke. Earthy, smoky, and satisfying, it leaves a warm and balanced trail.

Region

Islay’s wild maritime climate and deep peat reserves lend Octomore 15.2 its powerful, smoky backbone. Bruichladdich’s home on the western shores of the island influences every aspect of this whisky — from the barley’s character to the sea-swept aging warehouses — creating a spirit that is as bold as it is refined. This is Islay at full strength, tempered with precision and artistry.

Accolades

• Awarded 93–94 points across leading whisky publications for its harmonious blend of intensity and complexity.

• Celebrated for its sophisticated integration of peat, fruit, and spice, earning acclaim for both structure and subtlety.

• Consistently praised for its balance, making it a standout even within the notoriously powerful Octomore series.