Bruichladdich releases Octomore 17 whisky series

Bruichladdich Distillery has released the 17th series of its Octomore single malt Scotch whisky, a line known for its super-heavily peated profile and experimental maturation processes. The series, titled ‘Chromatic Signatures’, includes several distinct expressions.

Octomore 17.1 is aged for five years in first-fill bourbon barrels and is made from 100% Scottish Concerto barley. Octomore 17.2 utilizes the same barley lot but features a more complex maturation involving French oak casks previously used for Californian red wine and bourbon, finished in first-use Port barriques. Octomore 17.3 is a single-farm release from Irene’s Field at Octomore Farm, aged in first-fill bourbon and second-use European oak, including casks used for Ribera del Duero, Sauternes, Eiswein, and Syrah.

In a notable shift for the brand, the 17.4 release, which is typically a distillery exclusive, will receive its first-ever distribution in the United States.