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.
Best on Islay mild but remenicent of old smells of bygone old ways when the sheep came in to spend to night to wallow in the smell and cosiness of a time now long gone
Was looking for a slightly smokey whisky at a reasonable price. After drinking Talisker Dark Storm we wanted something a little lighter on the palate. This is a beautiful malt and so drinkable. Will definitely be going into our wedding quiche on May 10.
I was excited about this bottle than quickly disappointed. To me, it just tastes like cheap american bourbon with a tiny hint of smoke at the end. It tastes identical to Highland Park 12 to me and my wife. I almost think we got a bottle that wasn't a good representation of Caol Ila because a lot of people really love this drink. Like the review under mine, I'm also a Laphroaig lover. This left a lot to be desired for me.
I'm normally a Laphraoig man all day long, but in my opinion Caol Ila 12 pushes the 10 yr laphraoig very close. I was very pleasantly surprised by how good this is.
Very underrated! At this price point it's hard to imagine a better Islay single malt. Using the same water and peated malt as Lagavulin, it's fascinating to see how different a beast this is. Bright yet with honey and Heather on the tongue, there is still some lovely subtle smoke. I really love this one!
