Octomore gets its name from the Octomore farm, which is situated on the hillside above the charming village of Port Charlotte in the Rhinns of Islay. This farm is located not too far away from the renowned Bruichladdich distillery. The name Octomore holds a special significance and lends an air of mystery to this unique single malt whisky.
The origins of the name Octomore are intriguing and date back to the early 19th century. It is believed that the name is derived from the Gaelic words “Octo” and “Moor,” which together mean “eight” and “large hill” respectively. This refers to the eight farms that were originally part of the Octomore Estate, with the Octomore farm being one of them.
The Octomore farm has a long history and is deeply connected to the land and the community. It has witnessed the ebb and flow of generations, the changing seasons, and the rich traditions of Islay. The name Octomore not only pays homage to the farm’s heritage but also evokes a sense of place and a connection to the land.
Additionally, the name Octomore has become synonymous with the exceptional peated whiskies produced by Bruichladdich distillery. Octomore whiskies are known for their incredibly high levels of peat smoke, making them some of the most heavily peated whiskies in the world. The name Octomore, with its Gaelic roots, adds an air of mystique and authenticity to these peat-forward expressions.
Furthermore, the name Octomore captures the essence of the whisky itself. Just as the farm sits on a hillside overlooking the village, the Octomore whiskies stand tall and command attention in the whisky world. They are bold, powerful, and daring, pushing the boundaries of what is traditionally expected from a single malt.
In my personal experience with Octomore whiskies, I have found that the name truly encapsulates the spirit of the whisky. Each sip transports me to the rugged landscape of Islay, with its peat bogs and salty sea air. The name Octomore serves as a reminder of the distillery’s commitment to crafting exceptional whiskies that embody the essence of their surroundings.
To summarize, Octomore is called so because it takes its name from the Octomore farm, located on a hillside above Port Charlotte village in the Rhinns of Islay. The name itself has historical significance, referencing the eight farms that were once part of the Octomore Estate. It also captures the bold and peat-forward nature of the whiskies produced by Bruichladdich distillery, evoking a sense of place, heritage, and authenticity.