Kintra whisky is a small IB based in NL, and we’ve had the pleasure of sampling quite a few expressions bottled by it in the past, always with satisfaction. In October 2011 Erik (proprietor of Kintra) released 6 new single cask bottlings in the “Single Cask Collection” Series. A young Coal Ila which we’ll review shortly, a 26 year old Benrinnes , 22 year old Littlemill , 21 year old Miltonduff,13 year old Laphraoig , and a 20 year old Glen Garioch. Luckily I was able to get official samples of the lot, and I shall review them in the coming weeks.
Caol Ila, 10 year old, 62,6% ABV , Bourbon Hogshead, distilled 19/10/2000
Nose: Youthful. Sweet and extremely smoky. Dry smoke that is. Some fresh cut lemongrass as well.
Palate: Huge peat, tons of ash. Astray licking at its best. A few malty notes here and there. Old leather. Getting bitter. With tar and carbolic soap.
Finish: Very long. Waves of peat and smoke Keep on coming and hitting the palate.
All in all, this is not the most complex whisky you can get, but it’s not supposed to be that. It’s young, kicking and delivers the right amount of peat and smoke to you : The peat-head. If you are not keen on peat, or prefer lighter whiskies, look elsewhere. A very nice wintery dram, simple, and to the point. Will surely keep you warm in the winter nights.
Thanks again to Erik of Kintra for the official sample.