An Islay classic that we will never get enough of. Caol Ila 12 year old is the entry-level bottling from the Caol Ila distillery, launched in June of 2002. Caol Ila is the largest of the Islay distilleries by output and so it’s a favourite of brands, independent bottlers, and blends like Johnnie Walker.
Caol Ila 12 Year Old appeals to connoisseurs while also making the perfect entry to the world of peated whisky for newcomers, with its beautifully measured and mellow smokiness and a rich array of seaside flavours. It’s a serial award-winner that works great in cocktails (we recommend a smoky Highball), as well as being a good whisky to pair with salty and savoury foods.
Fresh, herbal. Rubbed peppermint leaves, stemmy, damp grass, smoky. Oily, cigar leaves, smoked ham, hickory. Lemon peels at the harbour.
Good body, oily, tar, elegant smoke. Hints of boiled sweets.
Long, peppery, spicy warmth, smoke.
This was the only distillery on the island I didn't get into, it was closed for maintenance when I visited, so I have tried less of their products. This 12 year old is an excellent Islay malt, a bit different to some of it's neighbours on the island, perhaps one for someone new to Islay malts, very complex and a joy on the tastebuds
It’s damn good. Deep, luscious, long finish.
I bought this very special whisky for my son-in- law’s 40th birthday and he was absolute over the moon with the present as he is very particular about the whisky he likes.
I was a little unsure about buying whiskey online, but I need not worry. It arrived fast & well packaged. I will certainly use this service again, at the behest of a dwindling bank account. The Caol Ila 12 year, is one of my favourite whiskeys from the £40- £70 price bracket.
One of my absolute favourites, and the whiskey that first got me into drinking single malts.
