The 13.2 edition of Octomore from Bruichladdich follows on from the 13.1, in that it’s made from 100% Scottish barley malted to a hefty 137.3 PPM, however the 13.2 edition of this superbly smoky single malt Scotch has enjoyed its five year ageing period entirely in first fill oloroso sherry butts from Fernando de Castilla, Spain, bringing waves of fruit and sweetness to the expressive Islay character.

The Antique Oloroso casks take this Octomore expression in a completely new direction. Delicate aromas of smoke and nutty citrus contradict the intense depth of flavour on the palate, with the contrasting combination working beautifully. Burnt orange in color and highly aromatic. This dram opens with a nutty, salty smoke with milk chocolate and leathery tobacco. The Oloroso casks have shaped this whisky with a rich syrupy orange and grapefruit citrus, along with hints of clove and cinnamon with walnut and praline. As it opens further, brown sugar, raisins, dried apple, melon and ripe pears come to the fore, with gentle peat smoke beautifully interwoven. There is a wonderful viscosity and presence on the palate. Notes of smoked nuts and leather, warm orange marmalade on fresh scones. Dried apricot and hints of peppery spice toward the finish. Earthy peat smoke comes to the fore with a little time, along with the fruit and nutty aromatics of the oloroso casks. A salty tang of sea breeze creates a lively combination of flavours to finish.