Octomore Masterclass 08.4/170 Virgin Oak

Nose: An enveloping and rich scent of peat smoke dominates, exuding a very sweet character reminiscent of a campfire with roasting pig. Notes of malt and warm baking spices are present, and with dilution, soft honeyed aromas emerge, hinting at floral notes. It's formidable! Palate: An intensely sweet and leathery start transitions to honeyed oak, leather, and coconut. It's potent and bold. The texture is surprisingly neutral, neither oily nor creamy nor thin, just present. Clove and herbal-heather notes appear later, along with sea-spray brine and iodine towards the finish, accompanied by some sweetness. Dilution brings out abundant honey. Finish: Extended. Fruity, peated notes linger into a slow, sweet aftertaste with hints of spice, licorice, and coconut. This is a substantial whisky, bigger than expected. Smoke and caramel candy are prominent, making for an exciting experience! Just when you think you understand it, something else takes center stage. There's a somewhat intrusive vinyl-plastic note on the palate, but it's mostly ignorable given the whisky's strong character. It's not my favorite expression from this line, though even the least favorite is highly rated. Pay attention: this spirit is very tight and not fully enjoyable neat. Have a sip without water first, then add some to fully appreciate it. Lowering the proof to around the mid-40s makes everything clear and expansive. The nose and palate instantly make sense, leading to adoration and Octomore fandom. A fantastic whisky, a remarkable Octomore. "Very Good": 87/100 (4.25 stars)

A gift from a friend. This spirit is certainly intense. However, if you enjoy venturing through the vast landscape of single malts, make sure to try this one. As expected with 170 ppm, the peat is incredibly potent, almost tangible. It’s rich and substantial, featuring notes of briny seaweed. What’s unexpected is the sweet barrel influence that warms your throat and softens the intensity of this remarkably robust spirit. At 58.7% ABV, consider adding a little water to mellow it slightly and allow the powerful peat to bring you comfort.

This is my third Octomore, following the 7.1 and 8.1. Thus far, none have truly impressed me, much like most of Bruichladdich's other products except for Port Charlotte 10 and Black Art. This is my least preferred Octomore to date. If you enjoy a lemony citrus peat profile, you'll love this; I don't particularly care for it. There's a limited bitter aftertaste. It's a 3.5 at best. Including the price would lower its score further. For me, the order would be 8.1, 7.1, and then 8.4.

The best things in life often appear unexpectedly, like deciding to go out to watch a game in San Francisco... the rest is history.

I really wish I could share this with someone special because it's so damn tasty. #Scotland