In 2002, Bruichladdich's master distiller Jim McEwan decided he wanted to create the peatiest whisky in the world, adding Octomore to its range range of unpeated (Bruichladdich) and very peated (Port Charlotte) whiskies. In addition to its extraordinary phenol content, Octomore is also characterized by an innovative approach to the blending and ageing of these spirits.

An Octomore 3.1—the third edition of Octomore—matured for five years in a bourbon cask. The barley used was grown in Scotland. The 152 ppm peating set a new record at the time, although this has now been exceeded by other editions of Octomore. A limited edition of 18,000 bottles.