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.
Delicious Islay Whisky. Somewhat smoother than other Islay Whiskies
This is the perfect single malt for me, a wonderful peaty, smoky treat that doesn't over-power the palate. Nice smokiness to the nose then a smooth toffee like peat that warms and comforts, then a tremendous finish. Top of the class!
Wonderful
I'm a big Ardbeg and peaty whisky fan (but I do drink and enjoy others ;) This was my first try at Caol Ila. It's very lemony (my gf, who is pretty much appalled by whisky, especially peaty stuff, tried this and said how much she was surprised by the sweet taste - didn't like the bitter/smoky finish though he he) almost like lemon sherbet sweets and there is that Islay peat tang that hits you; with oysters, sea shells and beach bonfires. The finish is very dry (a bit like the 8 yo Lagavulin I tried recently) but was only moderately smoky compared to others in its 'class'. I'm just over half way through the bottle (opened 2 weeks give or take) and it has become less peaty/smoky and more sweet in that time. I added a couple drops of water when first opened but think its best neat as it is now. Some reviews I'd seen said the peat levels were much less than Ardbeg 10 - Yes, its not as intense but the peat levels are still pretty decent if that's you're thing. It does lack on the smoke front though for me and I'm not sure if the finish is spirit or cask led - very dry, almost too much bitter tannins. Not a direct comparson, but reminds me of Laphroaig Quarter Cask . . .
Absolutely love it!
