It’s true you can’t go wrong with Caol Ila, and there are many young CIs being released by may IBS, this one’s distilled in 2007 and botted at 48.5% again (wonder why they chose this abv for all of the E&A releases – I need to ask…)
At any rate a really nice whisky this one, ideal for those chilly autumn nights which are upon us , hopefully soon. (we don’t have much of a winter here, mind you).
Caol Ila 2007 Equinox & Solstice Autumn Edition , 48.5%, £95
Nose: Yes, we’re certainly on islay! Lovely coastal notes with Seabreeze, tarry ropes, spent bandages, and hospital rooms, if you know what I mean… Add a touch of lemon drops and then some creamy notes, and a whiff of warm smoke, kippers maybe as well, seaweed and creosote, and olives in brine. quite complex indeed, and delivering what you’re looking for in a middle-aged Caol Ila.
Palate: The smoke is more pronounced now, with sweet/creamy notes that follow, alongside the lemon and lime rind, clay, earth. Coastal notes are here as well, with salty breezes and a hint of smoked cod. More Tar, then ash, oak, and licorice. Not as medicinal as the nose suggested, maybe a wee hint of bandages and again olives in brine.
Finish: Long, with bitter wood, ashy notes, wood spice and peat reek that goes on for a long time, salt, tar.
Conclusion: Lovely stuff, complex yet fun drinking for you Islay lovers. still available online, if you’re interested.