Whisky Review/Tasting: Octomore Epione

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Distilled at the Bruichladdich Distillery on the Isle of Islay, Scotland.
Type: Super heavily peated Islay single malt Scotch whisky.
Distillation and Maturation: Aged for six years, matured in French oak casks previously used for Vin Doux Naturel (VDN), a sweet French dessert wine, and possibly Sauternes wine casks.
Age Statement: 6 years.
Color and Clarity: Not explicitly described, but the focus is on the unique maturation process.
Bottle Design: Utilizes a standard liquor bottle, not the original Octomore bottle, indicating its unique status as part of the Renegade series.

Balance of Flavors: Described as complex, with a non-linear peatiness that doesn't directly correlate with its high phenol level (162.5 ppm). The flavor profile includes a mix of spiciness, alcohol, peat smoke, sweetness from the wine cask maturation, and oakiness.
Unique Characteristics: Noted for its super heavily peated nature but with a different, less intense peat smoke presence on the first sniff. The maturation in VDN and possibly Sauternes casks adds a layer of sweetness and complexity.
Comparison: The reviewer compares it unfavorably to other heavily peated whiskies he enjoys, indicating that the extreme peat level and certain off-notes (described as "stinky" and reminiscent of urine) detract from his enjoyment.

Anecdotes: The Octomore Epione is part of the Renegade series, named after Marc Renier, a former director of Bruichladdich, who retained some casks after the distillery's sale. This backstory adds a layer of intrigue and exclusivity to the whisky.
Trivia: The specific naming and batch numbering (MBRPT2) suggest a limited and unique production, with only 748 bottles available.

Islay Whisky: As an Islay whisky, Octomore Epione carries the tradition of heavily peated whiskies from this region but pushes the boundaries with its exceptionally high phenol level.
French Wine Influence: The use of VDN and possibly Sauternes casks for maturation links Scottish whisky craftsmanship with French winemaking traditions, showcasing a cross-cultural exchange in the spirits world.

Personal Opinions: Horst Luening, the reviewer, expresses a clear preference for less peated whiskies, indicating that the Octomore Epione's extreme peatiness and certain off-notes do not align with his taste.
Memorable Quotes: "This 162.5 is not four times as strong. It's different. It's complicated, complex."

Octomore Epione is a super heavily peated Islay single malt, aged for six years in French oak casks previously used for Vin Doux Naturel.
The whisky is part of the Renegade series, with a unique backstory involving former Bruichladdich director Marc Renier.
Despite its high phenol level (162.5 ppm), the peatiness is described as complex and different, with additional layers of sweetness and oakiness from the wine cask maturation.
The reviewer, Horst Luening, expresses a preference for less peated whiskies and notes some off-putting characteristics in the Octomore Epione.
The cultural and geographical significance includes its Islay origin and the influence of French winemaking traditions.

Peat Aficionados: Those who enjoy exploring the upper limits of peatiness in whisky might find Octomore Epione intriguing, despite its unconventional profile.
Collectors: Given its limited production and unique backstory, collectors might be interested in acquiring a bottle for its rarity and the story it represents.
Adventurous Drinkers: Individuals interested in experiencing the interplay between extreme peat and wine cask maturation might appreciate the complexity of Octomore Epione.