Bruichladdich Octomore 7.2

Octomore series have the highest peat levels – 208 ppm for this particular expression – in the market compared to more popular ‘Heavily Peated’ expressions from Ardbeg and Laphroaig whereas the peat levels remain around 40 -50 ppm. Jim McEwan, Ex-Head Distiller, created this series as a retaliation to those who dismissed Bruichladdich’s lack of peat.

Octomore 7.2 is a young spirit matured for around 5 years in American Oak casks which held Syrah wine from the Northern Rhone Valley. It comes non-chilled filtered and without any artificial coloring. Bottled at cask strength of 58.5% ABV, this Travel Exclusive ‘Peat Bomb’ can be yours for around £115.

Color: Golden (Interestingly all the Bruichladdich expressions we sampled had the same color)

Nose: From the first pop of the cork, peat and smoke becomes evident (although not as strong as some of the other Octomore editions)… Sweetness from red fruits, cranberries and strawberries thanks to wine cask finish… almost like a fire going on in an orchard… Burnt wooden notes… Floral notes emerge as the smoke starts to fade away along with vanilla and honey… Coastal aromas, sea water and iodine along with typical furniture wax notes on the background…

Palate: Heavy on the smoke as one should expect from an Octomore… Toasted red fruits, cherries and strawberries provide a balancing sweetness… Toasted-caramelized honey and vanilla… Wooden spices from oak keeps things interesting… Ash and char like bitter aromas takes over near the last part…

Finish: Long finish in the mouth… Smoky sweetness leaving behind chocolate like after taste… Finishing with bitter but warm notes…

Octomore Series are not for everyone. Although Edition 7.2 may be one of the more balanced expressions among the series but it still is an Octomore. Even some peat loving enthusiasts may find it over the edge. I enjoyed sipping this warming spirit in cold nights but it still might be too powerful for an everyday dram. I definitely don’t see myself drinking this in Summer time…

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