Caol Ila The Distillers Edition 2023 70cl
With it's dual-maturation in re-charred American oak casks which held Moscatel, this is a flavour packed special edition from Caol Ila
Description
Caol Ila The Distillers Edition 2023
Whilst the Caol Ila distillery is now owned by Diageo, its history dates back to 1846 when it was founded by Hector Henderson near Port Askaig on Islay.
It's name comes from the Gaelic "Caol Ìle" which translates as 'Sound of Islay' (literally meaning the Islay Strait). This is a reference to the distillerys location overlooking the strait between Islay and Jura (both Scottish Islands off the South West Coast).
The distillery is reknowned for producing a lighter Islay whisky, which is pale in colour and has peaty, floral and peppery notes. Whilst they are known and loved as single malts, they are also heavily used in the production of blended whiskies such as the famous Johnnie Walker Black Label.
With their Distillers Edition, Caol Ila have created a collection which stands for pure craftsmanship This started in 1997, and consists of a limited number of bottles each year - each with a rich depth of flavour.
Each barrel is selected individually to match the character of each of the refined single malts. A two part maturation process is also utilised, which adds depth and complexity to the final drink. This is first matured in refill barrels of American and European Oak, before resting again in scorched barrels of American oak which has held moscatel.
These selected flavor nuances are emphasised more strongly than in a standard bottling, but do not change anything of the original character of these delicious single malts. Its balanced, fresh and refined. with a deep, sweet and smoky taste profile - as the distillery says "reminiscent of the intense, rich colors of a late afternoon sun after a storm".
The nose begins with a smoky spiciness to it, before Caol Ila's clean notes open up. This gives aromas reminiscent of a freshly extinguished fire, joined with a background of fruit.
The palate is bold, with an oily smoothness to it, coating the mouth perfectly - allowing the flavours to develop. A full smokiness beginds, which in intensely flavourful - but is balanced perfectly with a sweetness and light wood spice.
The finish is long, with the smoke lingering, leaving a palate warmed with spice notes.
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Perfect Serve
Preferably drink this whiskey pure or with a sip of water to neutralize the flavor palette.
