Bruichladdich – Octomore Scottish Barley 15.2 (70cl)

Octomore 15.2 is a super-heavily peated Islay single malt from Bruichladdich, made from 100% Scottish barley, in a 70cl bottle. It is matured in a selection of first-fill and second-fill Oloroso sherry casks, which bring dried fruit and spice alongside the smoke. The nose combines maritime peat smoke with dried figs, dates and toasted almonds, plus leather, dark chocolate and a little salinity. On the palate come peat, ash and iodine, then dark fruits, treacle and espresso, with baking spices, walnuts and a mineral note. The finish is very long and warming, with dried fruit, dark cocoa and a trace of sea spray.