Spirit of Scotland Caol Ila 2010

Caol Ila 12 Year

$99.99

The most overlooked of all the peated heavyweights, despite the fact that it out-produces all of them by a substantial margin, Caol Ila (pronounced 'cull-eela') is a not-so-hidden gem for malt lovers. It is a sister distillery to Lagavulin (and Port Ellen!) and produces whisky with the same level of phenols as Lag, though generally speaking Caol Ila is a tick more delicate. The distillery's general profile is usually fairly citrus-driven, with a strong maritime influence and clean herbal notes. The 12 year old is an icon, but if you ever get a chance to walk up the age-stated range into the 20s and 30s, do not pass up the opportunity. 

43% abv

Producer Tasting Note

Nose: Subdued, citric fruitiness; a whiff of bath oil and dentist's mouthwash. A fresh and appetising nose, with little or no trace of smoke.

Palate: Drinks well at natural strength; sweet start; pleasant, light fragrant smokiness and a lengthy finish.

Finish: Sweet smokiness in the lingering, slightly sour finish.

SMOS Res Casks No.9 Caol Ila 8 Year

$109.99

This 8 year old Caol Ila is from a marriage of 6 ex-Bourbon Barrel, bottled at 48%.