Bruichladdich Octomore 09.3 Dialogos Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Octomore 09.3 is here and once again, the emphasis is on uber-provenance - one field, one farm, one vintage and 100% Islay grown Concerto barley. Distilled in 2012 and matured entirely on Islay in a combination of casks, including five years in 1st fill ex-American (25%), 3rd fill virgin oak (25%), 2nd fill Rivesaltes (20%), 2nd fill Syrah (20%) and 2nd fill bourbon (10%), the use of predominantly second-fill barrels has allowed more of the local barley flavours to cut through the 133ppm peat smoke. 18,000 bottles worldwide. We have a tiny allocation.

Other reviews... Distilled from 52 tons of Islay barley and filled into 134 casks, most of which were second fill. At 5 years old, the result is whisky with an initially fresh and zesty nose, featuring sea breezes and lemon juice. Mild iodine, ginger, and sweet peat then develop. Sweet on the full palate, with honey, cereal notes, smoky peat, and brine. Oak and chili in the ultimately dry finish. 62.9% Alc./Vol.
90 points - whiskyadvocate.com, reviewed by: Gavin Smith (Spring 2019)