The numbers on Octomore bottles, such as 10, 11, and 12, represent the release number of the particular Octomore series that Bruichladdich has released. Each series is unique and showcases different characteristics and flavor profiles.
To give you some background, the Octomore brand was first introduced by Bruichladdich in 2008 with Series 1. This groundbreaking release was known for its heavily peated whiskies, pushing the boundaries of peat levels in Scotch whisky. Since then, Bruichladdich has continued to explore and experiment with different expressions under the Octomore name.
Each new series of Octomore whiskies is denoted by a different number, indicating its chronological release. For example, Series 2 followed Series 1, Series 3 followed Series 2, and so on. Currently, the latest release is Series 12, but it’s worth noting that new series may be released in the future.
The numbers themselves do not have any specific meaning or significance beyond indicating the sequence of release. However, they do provide a way for enthusiasts and collectors to differentiate between different batches and track the evolution of Octomore over time.
It’s important to note that each Octomore release within a series can have its own unique characteristics, such as cask types, maturation periods, and peat levels. Therefore, even within a particular series, there can be significant variation from one bottling to another.
As for my personal experience with Octomore, I have had the opportunity to try a few expressions from different series. I’ve found that each release offers a distinct and captivating experience, showcasing the complexity and depth that can be achieved through the interplay of peat, cask influence, and distillery character.
The numbers on Octomore bottles represent the release number of the specific series from Bruichladdich. While they don’t have any inherent meaning, they help differentiate between different batches and allow enthusiasts to track the evolution of Octomore over time. Each series offers its own unique expressions, making Octomore a fascinating and ever-evolving whisky brand.