Caol Ila is a Scotch whisky distillery located on the rugged eastern coast of Scotland. Founded in 1846, it has been distilling whisky for over 170 years, making it one of the oldest distilleries in Scotland. It's name comes from the Gaelic language and translates to “Sound of Islay”, referring to the sound that separates Islay from Jura. Caol Ila is known for its distinctive smokiness, which sets it apart from other whiskies.
The whisky produced by Caol Ila is characterized by its peaty aromas and flavors. As soon as you open a bottle, you can smell the smoke emanating from it. In addition to the smokiness, Caol Ila also has notes of vanilla and oak due to being aged in bourbon casks for 12 years. You may also detect sweet notes such as honey and pumpkin pie as well as wood sugars. The whisky also has an oily texture with a complex and peppery finish.
The 12 Year Old Single Malt Expression of Caol Ila is bottled at 43% ABV, allowing all these wonderful flavors to be showcased perfectly. This expression is highly sought after by whisky lovers aound the world due to its unique character and flavor profile. If you are looking for an intensely smoky whisky with a pleasant sweetness and complexity then this expression of Caol Ila should definitely be on your list!
The Taste of Caol Ila Whiskey
Caol Ila 12 Year Old has an unmistakable nose of peat smoke, which is balanced by sweet notes of vanilla, oak and wood sugars. The taste reveals a smooth combination of honey-drizzled pumpkin pie, toasted malt and smoky notes that linger on the palate. On the finish, you'll find a subtle sweetness from the bourbon casks and a long, smoky aftertaste. This whisky has a unique character which will appeal to those who enjoy a classic Islay single malt with a hint of sweetness.
The Meaning of Caol Ila
Caol Ila is a Gaelic phrase meaning “the Sound of Islay”, which refers to the body of water located between the Isle of Islay and Jura in Scotland. Since 1846, Caol Ila has been distilled on the eastern coast of Scotland and is renowned for its smoky character, derived from the peat used to dry the malted barley.
The Type of Whisky Produced by Caol Ila
Caol Ila is a classic Islay-style single malt Scotch whisky. It is made with peated malt, which gives it a distinct smoky flavour, and it matures in salty coastal air, which further contributes to its unique taste. The resulting whisky is full-bodied with a subtle sweetness and an intense smoky finish.
Conclusion
Caol Ila 12 Year Old is a unique and delicious single malt whisky from the Islay region of Scotland. Its distinct smokiness and complexity come from aging in bourbon casks for twelve years, which gives it a sweet and full-bodied flavor. The nose offers peat smoke as well as vanilla, oak, wood sugars, and honeyed pumpkin pie notes. On the palate, its smoky, peppery and oily characteristics make for a smooth yet intense drinking experience. With its rich flavor profile and long history of production on the rugged eastern coast of Scotland since 1846, Caol Ila 12 Year Old is a trly special whisky worth trying at least once.
