Bruichladdich Octomore 05.1 5 Year Old Single Malt Whisky – 70cl 59.5%

This is another classic 5 year old release from Bruichladdich’s Octomore, and again the peating level rises, now to 169 PPM. But at this degree of peating it’s not about ultimate strength, it’s about achieving the exceptional balance between the brooding power of this incredibly peated barley and the finesse and poise of one of the world’s most elegant and sophisticated spirits – about craft, not ultimate strength. The world’s peatiest whisky just got peatier. This fifth annual release is peated to an extraordinary 169ppm. Nose: Pungent peat, smoky oak and coals. Wheat and oats, sprinkled with sugar. Palate: Surprisingly sweet, poached pears and baked apples. A touch of nutmeg and of course a large punch of peat. Finish: Peat is at its most prominent, salty and smoky.