Bruichladdich Octomore Edition 16.1 Scotch Whisky

Bruichladdich Octomore Edition 16.1 is the latest release in the world’s most heavily peated whisky series — produced at Bruichladdich Distillery on Islay at extreme PPM levels that dwarf any standard Islay expression, bottled at natural cask strength without chill filtration.

The Octomore series is named after an old farm on Islay and represents Bruichladdich’s exploration of extreme peating levels — typically 80–300+ PPM versus the 40–55 PPM of standard Islay heavily peated malts. Edition 16.1 is peated to a level specified on the label, aged in American oak ex-bourbon casks. Despite the extreme peat level, Octomore expressions are consistently described as sweeter and more complex than expected — the Islay barley terroir and Bruichladdich’s production approach produce a different style of extreme peat than mainland Scottish expressions. Browse all Scotch whisky at Wooden Cork.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Octomore the most heavily peated whisky in the world?

Yes — Octomore holds the record for the most heavily peated single malt Scotch whisky commercially produced. Each edition specifies the PPM level on the label, with earlier editions at 80–150 PPM and some editions exceeding 250–300 PPM. Mainstream Islay malts like Ardbeg run at 55 PPM and Laphroaig at 50 PPM for comparison.

Does Octomore taste overwhelmingly of smoke?

Surprisingly, no — the extreme peat level is balanced by the natural sweetness of Islay barley and the vanilla and caramel from American oak maturation. Most enthusiasts describe Octomore as more complex and sweeter than expected given the PPM figure, making it genuinely interesting rather than simply a peat endurance test.