Caol Ila 18 Year

A very nice whisky, but not flawless. It starts off in a fragile way, with a delicate bouquet of peat. The palate is complex, with notes of black tea and lemon zest, with the occasional burst of salt and freshly ground pepper. It's quite nice, as it transitions into a finish that is long. It's bitter in the end, and that takes away from the overall pleasure. Still good.

Caol Ila (based on the 12 and Moch) hasn't been a distillery that's overly excited me. Good but not top of the Islay pile personally. From vague memory the 18 is similar to the 12 but I think I like it more..not sure why maybe passage of time. Warm gentle peat balanced with sweet vanilla, lovely gentle finish. Definitely in the low to mid 4 range. $130 USD is fair for its age especially given it's an Islay malt. Whilst I could easily drink my way through a bottle in a blink of an eye as its very good and approachable it's still not one that excites me or blows me away

30-35 ppm phenols. Aged in refill ex-bourbon casks. Aroma: smoky with a bit of brine/seaweed, flint, light vanilla, fennel, and sandalwood (or some kind of woody incense) Palate: Woody, ginger, vanilla, light fruit, oily Finish: a minimal finish with wood and a hint of ginger and pepper Overall: subtle (for a smoky scotch), with water the spicy notes are more noticeable from the palate through the finish (but being very light do not add more than a few drops of water)

This whiskey sways you initially with a light a vibrant profile, bright with subtle peat and smooth character. The smoothness it carries is only complimented by a rich smoky finish. This one is deserves to be enjoyed thoroughly and with great reflection of what is in your glass. (FWF share #5)

Recommended by Henry