Bruichladdich – Octomore 15.2 (57.9%)

Octomore 15.2 is a heavily peated single malt from Bruichladdich on Islay, distilled from the same batch of Scottish barley as Octomore 15.1 and malted to 108.2 ppm. It was conceived as a point of comparison with 15.1, but its maturation differs. The spirit was matured in second-fill wine and second-fill bourbon casks, then finished in first-fill Cognac casks. It was bottled at 57.9%, without chill-filtration or added colour. The nose offers sweet citrus, lime zest, lemon meringue pie and lightly toasted oak. The palate is viscous and soft, with custard, caramel, toffee and a touch of black pepper. The finish is distinctly maritime, with earthy peat smoke.