Introducing the Octomore Edition 16.3, Bruichladdich’s most authentically Islay expression in the acclaimed 16.x series. Crafted entirely on Islay from Islay-grown Concerto barley, this super heavily peated single malt (measuring 189.5 PPM) is matured just steps away from the shores of Loch Indaal in the Bruichladdich warehouses.

Edition 16.3 is matured in a mix of first-fill bourbon barrels and second-fill Ribera del Duero red wine casks, resulting in a complex, earthy, smoky, and subtly fruity whisky that truly reflects its origin. Bottled at a bold 61.6% ABV, this is a cask strength, non-chill filtered, natural color whisky that showcases the full terroir of Islay—from barley field to bottle.

This is a whisky for serious peat lovers, terroir enthusiasts, and collectors who crave authenticity and boldness in every drop.

KEY FEATURES

• Brand: Bruichladdich Distillery

• Series: Octomore

• Edition: 16.3

• Region: Islay, Scotland

• Age: 5 Years

• ABV / Proof: 61.6% ABV / 123.2 Proof

• PPM (Phenol): 189.5 (Super Heavily Peated)

• Cask Maturation:

  • 88% First-Fill Bourbon Barrels

  • 12% Second-Fill Ribera del Duero Red Wine Casks

• Barley Type: 100% Islay-grown Concerto Barley (2022 harvest, Octomore Farm)

• Distillation Year: 2017

• Bottled Year: 2023

• Non-Chill Filtered: Yes

• Natural Color: Yes

• Bottle Size: 700ml

• Limited Edition: Yes

• Matured and Bottled on Islay

TASTING NOTES

Nose:
A waft of earthy peat smoke, cracked black pepper, and Islay sea breeze. Underneath, subtle notes of cherry skin, leather, toasted vanilla bean, and hints of medicinal iodine.

Palate:
Explosive and oily texture. Flavors of charred oak, pipe tobacco, red currants, and salted caramel mingle with hints of dark chocolate, brine, and citrus peel. A beautiful tug-of-war between sweetness, smoke, and savory.

Finish:
Long, drying, and smoky. Peat ash, spiced oak, sea salt, and a lingering red berry warmth. A powerful, yet composed finale.

HOW TO ENJOY

• Neat: For the purest, most intense expression of Islay's terroir.

• With a Few Drops of Water: Opens up layers of fruit, spice, and minerality.

• Perfect Pairing: Smoked meats, aged cheeses, grilled lamb, or a dark chocolate torte.

• Glassware: Glencairn or Copita glass recommended for full aromatic exploration.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)

Q: What is special about the .3 Octomore releases?
The .3 series always features Islay-grown barley and is matured entirely on Islay, offering a true terroir-driven Scotch whisky experience.

Q: How peated is this release?
At 189.5 PPM, Octomore 16.3 ranks among the most heavily peated whiskies in the world, yet it maintains a refined complexity.

Q: What is Ribera del Duero cask influence like?
It imparts deep red fruit, wine tannins, and subtle spice, balancing beautifully with the vanilla-rich bourbon cask profile.

Q: Is this chill filtered or colored?
No. Like all Octomore releases, 16.3 is non-chill filtered and naturally colored for maximum purity.