Heritage
Octomore 14.3 is the boldest expression of Islay’s rugged character—crafted from 100% Concerto barley grown on Octomore Farm and distilled just two miles from where it was harvested. Aged five years and bottled at a cask-strength 61.4% ABV, this super heavily peated single malt carries a phenol content of 214.2 ppm, yet remains remarkably refined. Matured in a mix of first-fill ex-American whiskey barrels and second-fill wine casks, Octomore 14.3 captures the paradox of raw strength and cultivated elegance. Every bottle is non-chill filtered and free of added color, allowing the barley and coastal terroir to speak clearly through a haze of luxurious smoke.
Tasting Profile & Food Pairings
Tasting Notes
The nose opens with a soft cereal sweetness—evoking warm porridge and biscuit—layered with butterscotch, honeycomb, and smouldering peat. There’s a vibrant undertone of citrus peel, ripe orchard fruit, and creamy vanilla, complemented by floral accents and a briny hint of the sea. On the palate, the peat comes alive with incredible structure, offering waves of malted barley, charred oak, and sweet spice. The high ABV intensifies the mouthfeel without overwhelming it, revealing delicate layers of toasted almonds, honeysuckle, and a touch of lemon meringue. The finish is long and warming, unfolding with earthy smoke, soft caramel, and a lingering saline sweetness that feels unmistakably Islay.
Food Pairings
Octomore 14.3 pairs beautifully with rich and flavorful dishes that can stand up to its powerful profile. Slow-roasted lamb shoulder with rosemary and garlic enhances its smoky, herbal edge, while grilled oysters or seared scallops echo its maritime character. For cheese, a wedge of mature comté or smoked cheddar balances the whisky’s depth. Dark chocolate with sea salt, or a dense fruitcake, highlights its sweet undertones and draws out the long finish.
Craftsmanship
Bruichladdich is a progressive Hebridean distillery located on the rugged shores of Islay, Scotland. Known for pushing boundaries while honoring tradition, Bruichladdich operates with a deep commitment to transparency, traceability, and terroir. The distillery exclusively uses Scottish-grown barley and distills, matures, and bottles all its whiskies on Islay itself. While its unpeated Bruichladdich line emphasizes floral and elegant character, it’s the Octomore series that redefines what’s possible with peat. These experimental single malts are among the most heavily peated whiskies in the world, yet they astonish with complexity, balance, and refinement. Octomore isn’t just about intensity—it’s about proving that powerful whisky can also be deeply elegant.
