Caol Ila Caol Ila Islay Single Malt Whisky Aged 12 Years NV 750ml

A seductive brininess and waves of oily peat-reek greet the olfactory sense. The palate entry finds a surprisingly buttery-creamy leaning along with the peat-reek; at midpalate the flavor becomes concentrated, oily, malty sweet, and only moderately peaty. Ends on a sweet malty note. Builds from stage to stage, each phase being better than the last.

Funny to think how recently Caol Ila was an Islay giant that was kept pretty much under wraps by its owner. These days it has cemented its reputation as the island’s Mr. Consistent. This version shows its character the best, a nose that mixes seashore and grass with a distinct hint of smoked bacon. The peatiness isn’t dominant, but flows throughout the palate, scenting, lifting, and subtly changing the mix. A delicious oiliness makes it a great food whisky.

The pale hue boasts perfect clarity. the first sniffing leaves no doubt whatsoever about the place of origin as waves of sea salt, brine, and oily peat-reek greet the olfactory sense with aplomb and vigor; aeration accelerates the brininess, in particular, to the point where it turns medicinal and seductive. The palate entry phase features a surprisingly buttery/creamy leaning as the peat-reek takes on an oily face; at mid palate, the flavor profile concentrated, oily, malty sweet, and only moderately peaty. Ends on a sweet malty note that greatly complements the peaty underpinnings.