Caol Ila 12 Year Old Scotch Whisky is indeed chill-filtered. This process is commonly used in the whisky industry to remove any impurities or unwanted elements that may cause cloudiness or haze in the final product. While chill-filtering can help to create a visually appealing whisky, it can also have an impact on the flavor and mouthfeel of the spirit.
Chill-filtering involves cooling the whisky to a temperature just above its freezing point and then passing it through a fine filter to remove any particles or fats that may be present. This process helps to prevent the whisky from becoming hazy or developing sediment when it is chilled or diluted with ice or water. It also ensures that the whisky remains consistent in appearance from bottle to bottle.
However, the downside of chill-filtering is that it can strip away some of the natural oils and compounds in the whisky that contribute to its flavor and texture. Some whisky enthusiasts believe that chill-filtering can result in a loss of complexity and character in the final product.
Personally, I have had the opportunity to taste both chill-filtered and non-chill filtered whiskies side by side, including Caol Ila expressions. I found that the non-chill filtered versions often had a richer mouthfeel and more pronounced flavors, with a slightly oilier texture on the palate. These whiskies seemed to have a greater depth of character and complexity, which I found to be very enjoyable.
That being said, chill-filtering can still produce a high-quality whisky, and many people appreciate the clarity and consistency that it provides. It is worth noting that the decision to chill-filter a whisky is often a commercial one, as it can make the product more visually appealing and less prone to developing haze or sediment over time.
In addition to being chill-filtered, Caol Ila 12 Year Old is also sometimes artificially colored. This means that a small amount of caramel coloring is added to the whisky to give it a consistent and appealing hue. While the addition of caramel coloring does not have a significant impact on the flavor of the whisky, it is worth noting for those who prefer their whisky to be completely natural in color.
Caol Ila 12 Year Old Scotch Whisky is indeed chill-filtered and may also contain added caramel coloring. While these processes can impact the flavor and mouthfeel of the whisky, they are common practices in the industry and can help to create a visually appealing and consistent product. Ultimately, personal preference will determine whether or not these factors are important to you as a whisky enthusiast.