THE BACKBONE OF THE SERIES
The backbone of the 14th annual Octomore series, the character of the 14.1 offers a necessary comparison from which the other expressions alternate and evolve. The base for this latest series showcases the delicate and intricate balance between smoke, malt, cask and maturation – resulting in an all-encompassing drinking experience. Matured for five years in first-fill ex-American whiskey casks, the 14.1 shows the power and potential of its essential raw ingredients. Sweet caramel and vanilla open on the nose, with bright citrus cutting through Octomore’s signature smoke - elevated with roasted coffee and subtle spice.
Octomore 14.2 uses the same barley varietal and is malted to the same PPM as the 14.1, but the liquids diverge profoundly with the influence of wine and sherry casks on the 14.2 spirit.
TASTING NOTES
COLOUR: Deep Amber
NOSE: Leather, prunes, red currants and malted barley come to the fore, followed by toasted oak and hints of cinnamon, green apple and black pepper. Waves of smoke and distinct red fruits follow, complemented with cereal notes of malt and porridge. The peat smoke is dry and brooding, with a hint of burnt heather and subtle pipe tobacco from the oak.
PALATE: The influence of the European oak is unmissable, with a touch of dryness balanced with the vibrancy of wood spices, smoked oak and roasted coffee. Barbeque sweetness and a crack of black pepper is complemented with rich fruit cake and dried fruits. A drop of water opens the smoke and fruity sweetness from the wine casks, bringing a beautiful balance as notes of apple and pear grow with the dram.
FINISH: Smoked malt, smouldering oak and sea salt settle on the finish.