Octomore 15.2

Octomore Series 15 Tasting, The Oak Barrel, Sydney. November 13, 2024. Whisky #4 Aroma: Dried fruits (raisins, figs, cranberries), cherry jam, sweet tropical fruit salad in syrup, mead, sauternes. The smoke is deeper than in the 15.1 expression, with softer and more rounded qualities. It's still a gentle Octomore smoke, but more like asphalt than bonfire, adding a warming harmony to the aroma. There's absolutely no sign of the 57.9% ABV; it's superbly integrated, allowing for deep inhalation of the aromas. Palate: Very sweet and chewy with creamy vanilla, nectarines, golden peaches, dried figs, and toffee. Cereal notes are present, but they resemble buttery croissants or cherry Danish more than cereal flakes, possessing a succulent, juicy quality. The mild peat smoke appears mainly during the development on the palate, accompanied by a very good, subtle oak note. Finish: Medium/Long. The fruit and soft cereal grains transition into a sweet wine aftertaste with a veil of mild smoke and a faint tingle of spice. This is a very good Octomore, provided you appreciate a strong wine cask influence (which I do). Considering the variety of casks used, it's remarkable how seamlessly they combine to create a unified warm presence. Perhaps the use of exclusively European oak contributed to its success. Whatever the reason, the outcome is marvelous. The alcohol is very well-balanced on both the nose and palate; you would never guess you were tasting a whisky with an alcohol content in the high 50s. However, the whisky also responds very well to dilution; water simply reduces the intensity of the aroma and flavor while maintaining balance. Rubber or plastic notes never emerge, and the profile remains sweet and warm. This is one of my favorite recent Octomores, and if it had been available for purchase at the tasting, I would have bought a bottle. Recommended. "Very Good": 87/100 (4.25 stars)

The Octomore we know and love, but with a more sophisticated and premium palate. The cognac finish introduces a complex layer at the back of the mouth, unlike any Octomore I've had before; it tastes like a more mature whiskey, quite enjoyable. The peat remains prominent but is less intense than the.1 and especially the.3 versions. It possesses a fruity quality without the extra sweetness found in ex-bourbon casks. Don't miss out on this; if it's your first Octomore, prepare to be amazed by something fresh and fantastic!

Smoke, abundant peat. Remarkably smooth with just a touch of rich cream and sweetness.