Bruichladdich Octomore 12.2 follows in the footsteps of previous Sauternes legends. The now infamous Octomore 4.2 (Comus) became one of the most acclaimed and sought- after whiskies in our distillery’s portfolio, confirming that heavy peat smoke combined with sweet dessert wine of Sauternes is an incredible pairing. This Octomore 12.2 would spend three and a half years in ex-American oak casks, building a solid foundation of fruity and floral spirit in our lochside warehouses before being recasked in to impeccable quality Sauternes casks. The pivotal role of the Sauternes casks would add 18 months of supercharged fruit. Melon, white peach, honeysuckle and coconut add a real twist and sweetness to compliment the peat smoke of this heavily phenolic malt.

Bruichladdich Octomore 12.2 Tasting Notes by The Chaps at Whiskyfun.com

129.7 PPM this time. Sauternes – and some other sweet wines – are occasionally an exception to my general mistrust of wine casks. Let’s see what they’ve been up to in this case…

Colour: gold.

Nose: farmyard and seashore lashed together with strands of sugar. On first impressions this works pretty well. Some kind of smoked flower honey, dried seaweed, nori, smoked olive oil, seawater, lime juice and hessian. A nicely sharp smokiness comes through over time.

With water: cod liver oil, Bakelite, jute bag, black olive tapenade and plasticine.

Mouth: the sweetness is still present but once again it works pretty well, the impression of a balancing act underway. Slightly acidic farmyard peat smoke, coal embers, wood ashes, natural tar, petrol and pickling brine.

With water: vary tarry, lots of smoke, soot, ashes, camphor and brine. Perhaps more simple and classical peat monster territories now.

Finish: long, sooty, briny and showing a slightly more grubby puffer smoke vibe. Anchovy paste and bacon lardons.

Comments: a lot of fun and I think very good as the Sauternes involvement has been done quite cleverly. Just runs out of steam a bit towards the end perhaps. 87 Points

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