The first-ever Caol Ila 35 year old in this series is also the oldest Caol Ila Special Release to date, combining whisky from refill American oak hogsheads and refill American and European oak butts in a well-balanced and mature expression that shows a fine freshness, cleanliness and precision for its age. Limited edition from Diageo Special Releases annual collection, just 3,276 bottles worldwide.
Tasting notes
Antique gold
A clean and clear start, with floral and fruity notes on a fresh-cleaned and faintly smoky base.
Light to medium. Cooling and fluid, with a smooth texture.
Starts sweetly and soon dries, with a rising peaty pungency and a spicy-sweet finish.
Established in 1846, Caol Ila is hidden away in a tiny bay near Port Askaig, the distillery remained almost unknown until the release of its award-winning range in 2002. This is in many ways a connoisseur’s Islay malt, well balanced with a distinctive taste and great depth at any age.
Whiskyfun review
91 points Serge Valentin
