Caol Ila 12 Year Old

Spicy, Maritime, Costal
2022-09-02

Caol Ila is one of the ten largest distilleries in Scotland and by far the largest on the island of Islay. Nevertheless, a permanently available series of standard bottlings has only been on the market since the early 2000s. We taste the classic.
Actually, a large part of Caol Ila’s production ends up in blends, such as the Black Bottle or Johnnie Walker. The own bottlings have become more and more popular in recent years. With good reason?

Caol Ila 12 Year Old (Preview Image Source: The Whisky Exchange)

Smell

The 12-year-old single malt opens with a cold medicinal smoke. Campfires and burnt-out coals come to mind. Light citrus notes follow, as well as mineral notes. The scotch smells very clean. Not intense - rather restrained.

Taste

This Islay malt opens almost creamy and surprisingly sweet. Later, the smokiness takes over. Very pleasant notes of sea asparagus and oatmeal are on the tongue. Light, not intrusive and maritime, all parts of the palate are reached.

Finish

Phenolic citrus fruits and a slightly spicy oak note remain. The smoke lingers in the medium-long finish.

Thoughts

Unexpectedly, Caol Ila offers us an incredible balance with the youngest of the standard range. At the beginning, it is very reminiscent of an Islay single malt. Once you get used to the peat smoke, a world of flavours unfolds. Saltiness, green tones and a soft character. This Scotch is definitely worth a try for all whisky drinkers. Also suitable for newcomers to the Islay world.

Rating: 75/100 - Very Good (Marcel: 72 | Sascha: 78)

Value for Money: 4/5 - Good

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Preview Image Source: The Whisky Exchange