Bruichladdich Octomore Edition 08.3 Masterclass / 309 PPM 2011

Professionele reviews

Serge Valentin (86)

I don’t think they malt at PE, so I guess they have to harvest on Islay, ship to the maltsters on the mainland, and get it back. Lots of ppms to be lost during transport, I imagine. Anyway, this had 309ppm in/on the malted barley – right after smoking, I suppose. Colour: pale gold. Nose: once again, no peat bomb so far, but there is some gingery and cinnamony oak. And ink, carbon paper, charcoal, coal tar, soft vinegar, brine, and all that. As well as a game-y meatiness. Last week’s grouse? With water: satay sauce! Mouth (neat): oh good! Extremely simple, almost elementary, but this sweet-curry-like oakiness tangoes with the very ashy and peppery smoke to perfection. Pad Thai? With water: well, I’m not too much into coconut and chilli sauce, I have to say. But I enjoy guavas and papayas. Finish: long, bold, and frankly Thai. You could pour this onto beef, shrimps, prawns, chicken, fish, tofu… Excuse me? No, not snakes! Very sweet aftertaste, with quite a lot of coconut oil. Comments: this is very modern, that’s all I’ll say. And rather Thai… Feels less smoky than 8.1, in spite of all the ‘ppms’. Ha, ppms!

BOW (89)

Title: Octomore Edition 08.3 Masterclass: The Peatiest Elixir from Islay's Heart

Introduction

For aficionados of smoky, peated Scotch whisky, the Octomore range needs no introduction. Within this esteemed lineup, Octomore Edition 08.3 stands out as a masterclass in the art of crafting intensely peaty and flavorful single malt Scotch. Distilled at Bruichladdich Distillery on the picturesque Isle of Islay in 2011, this particular expression boasts an astonishing 309 PPM (phenol parts per million) and a robust ABV of 61.2%. This edition is a testament to the distillery's commitment to pushing the boundaries of peat and terroir while delivering an unforgettable sensory experience.

Terroir and Ingredients

Octomore Edition 08.3 begins its journey with a crucial connection to the land. The barley used in its production hails exclusively from Church Field at Octomore Farm, Islay. This choice of 100% Islay barley imparts a distinct regional character and sets the stage for an authentic Islay experience. The island's unique climate and soil conditions play a vital role in shaping the barley's flavor profile, ensuring that the whisky captures the essence of Islay.

The Peat Monster

Peat, an essential component of Octomore's character, is measured in PPM, representing the amount of phenols found in the barley. In this case, an astonishing 309 PPM places Octomore Edition 08.3 in the upper echelons of peated whiskies. Phenols are organic compounds responsible for the characteristic smokiness and medicinal notes in Islay whisky. This exceptionally high PPM guarantees a truly intense and immersive peaty experience that will satisfy even the most discerning peat enthusiasts.

Distillation and Maturation

Distilled in 2011 at the Bruichladdich Distillery, Octomore Edition 08.3 spent five years maturing in the rugged Scottish climate before being bottled on October 23, 2017. The aging process is crucial for mellowing the raw intensity of the peat and allowing the whisky to develop complexity and depth. What sets this expression apart is its unique cask composition. A total of 56% of the whisky matured in full-term ex-Bourbon casks, imparting sweet vanilla and caramel notes that beautifully complement the peat. The remaining 44% aged in full-term European Oak casks, providing additional layers of complexity with rich tannins, dried fruit, and spice notes.

Limited Edition Rarity

Octomore Edition 08.3 is not just remarkable for its flavor but also for its exclusivity. With only 18,000 bottles produced, this release is a collector's dream. The limited quantity ensures that each bottle is a piece of whisky history, a testament to the dedication and craftsmanship of the team at Bruichladdich.

Tasting Notes

As one might expect from a whisky with such a high PPM, Octomore Edition 08.3 is a sensory explosion. On the nose, there are bold notes of earthy peat smoke, seaweed, and maritime brininess, followed by hints of citrus and oak. The palate is a rollercoaster of flavors, with the peat smoke taking center stage, complemented by sweet vanilla, honey, and dried fruits. The long, smoky finish leaves a lasting impression, a reminder of the whisky's extraordinary peatiness.

Conclusion

Octomore Edition 08.3 Masterclass is a true masterpiece of Islay whisky-making, combining the rich terroir of the island with an unparalleled dedication to peat and craftsmanship. From its origins at Octomore Farm to the unique cask maturation and exceptional PPM, this whisky is a symphony of flavors and a must-try for peat enthusiasts and whisky connoisseurs alike. With its limited availability, securing a bottle of this exceptional expression is akin to owning a piece of Islay's whisky legacy. Whether sipped neat, with a drop of water, or in a classic cocktail, Octomore Edition 08.3 promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of Islay's peated spirit.