Caol Ila Stitchell Reserve (2013 Special Release)

Dry, salty

Very smooth for a cask strength. “Unpeated style” but still nice flavors that scream Islay. Strong oak, vanilla.

Nose: Smokey, sea salt, salted butter, vanilla Taste: vanilla, salt, butter, spice Finish: smokey bacon, vanilla, butter (Really enjoyed this, peaty with sweet buttery flavours I hadn't come across yet)

My 499 review comes from an Islay Malt. Maybe the most forgotten one by me, Caol Ila, which i respect but i don't really have the same appreciation as an Ardbeg, Laphroaig or a Lagavulin. Actually this high strength abv dram was a part of a future release from an independent bottler that is going to enter the market soon (in fall 2019). Bottled at 59%abv, pale straw color. On the nose, lots of things happen here bit not necessarily the most appealing ones. Lemon, peat, pure alcohol or as we ecuadorian call it: PURO. Agave from tequila, grapefruit, dry grass and tea. The kind of tea that old people drink. Not my favorite aroma, but complex enough to get a solid score. On the palate, very few notes, very clean and delicious ones. Chinese Tea. Chocolate, dry feeling, lemon. No more, but it is really good. Aftertaste is where the islay profile really gets to you. For a 59%abv there is no alcohol kick or unbearable spiciness. Smoke, peat, beach notes, sand, peppery spiciness. Overall, this is not my favorite dram, but i have to be objective and due to its complexity and well craftedness i give it a 90 over 100.