Submitted by Philip Storry on
10 years old, distilled 7th March 2012, 60.7% abv, refill ex-bourbon hogshead, 288 bottles, dram price C
The nose has light tobacco notes, bonfire smoke, and hints of lemon. The mouthfeel is thin with no cling. The body has bonfire smoke, seawater on warm granite, lemon and grilled seafood. The finish has bonfire smoke and lemon.
Water brings out thick whorling that settles rapidly into brief mottling. The nose gains bonfire smoke and more lemon. The body gains more lemon and minerality. The finish gains more lemon and bonfire smoke.
A classic Caol Ila. Can’t go wrong.
One for summer nights.
Technical score: 4.5/5
Personal preference: I’d like a bottle.
This whisky was provided by the SMWS in a preview session - thanks to them for that. Full editorial control has been retained in the tasting process.