Review #: 327
Description: Octomore 12.3
Spirit: Scotch
Background: Wrapping up the 2021 Octomore lineup (I don’t believe there is a 12.4 release), the 12.3, as is tradition, comes from barley grown on Islay. It is distilled from Concerto barley grown on the Octomore Farm, and peated to 118.1 PPM. The final blend is comprised of 75% first fill ex-bourbon and 25% full maturation PX sherry butt aged for at least 5 years.
Distillery – Bruichladdich
Bottler – Bruichladdich
Brand – Octomore
Selection – N/A
ABV – 62.1%
Age – 5 Years
Nose – Roasted tree nuts, raisins, sweet malt, smoked chocolate, candied lemon, sea breeze, sourdough
Taste – Sweet and syrupy, very rich, dark chocolate and raspberry, coffee beans, chocolate syrup
Finish – Rich chocolate, roasted tree nuts, touch of sea salt, campfire embers, tobacco, leather, just a touch of the PX sherry comes in too
Score: 8
Would I buy a bottle? Around $250, it’s pricey but I’d really consider it
Thoughts: This is what I look for in Octomore. It’s brash and in your face, but complex and nuanced. The PX definitely comes through but is really well blended to be complementary and not overpowering. I love the intricacy of the fruit coming through playing with the ex-bourbon and the peat. Really delightful stuff here.