I recall when and where I first had an Octomore. It was back in 2013 at Jack Rose Saloon and the pour was the 5.1/169. I was really discovering how much I loved the peaty scotches and it was suggested I try it. Needless to say, every part of the night was rememberable. Since then, I have not had an Octomore until now through @Telex graciously providing me a sample. And on this cold night, perfect for a nightcap. The nose is peaty, though not overpowering. Sea spray on a winters gray day. Sulphur and ozone mixed with vanilla and brown sugar. A small hint of fruitiness of Granny Smith apple and apricots. A deep, rich sooty smokey arrival that’s Cayenne peppery hot. A syrupy brown sugar sweetness with lemon tartness swings around once the pringly sensation subsides. The pins and needles sensation swings right back around with the peatiness towards the finish. A long lasting ashy finish with lemon zest and salted caramel. Peat-smoke as advertised is what you get. Not overly complex. Packaged in a youthful and spry body keeps it somewhat erratic and energetic. Throw a few more years on this (would venture this is about 8 years) and this will make a top notch whisky. I love Bruichladdich and peated whiskies are what I enjoy most. However, I can grab a Lagavulin 16 or Ardbeg/Laphroaig 10 for a fraction of the cost of this scotch and still enjoy a great peaty scotch. That being said, this is worthy of a pour for those “peat heads”. [88/100][Tasted: 3/16/18]