Caol Ila 1981 - 2011

Tasting notes by Serge Valentin, WhiskyFun.com 90/100

Already many greats amongst the 1981s so let’s see what our Belgian friends have pulled out here…

Colour: white wine.

Nose: the wonders of lazy casks when the distillate is great! Sure this baby (well, not quite a baby anymore) does not really smell ‘30’ but it certainly got more complex and more subtle than its younger bros and sistas, although it kept that medicinal side that reminds us of another Islayer from the south shore… Let’s not mention the obligatory brine and all the rest and rather focus on the unusual notes, such as honeysuckle, angelica, fresh figs, menthol cigarettes (mum’s Kools), pink grapefruits, the faint whiffs of camphor… Well, this is a superb nose!

Mouth: simply an extremely satisfying palate, with all things Caol Ila, maybe a little more brutal than on the nose, all on brine, seashells, lemon, ashes and that earthiness that can be so great. Top notch and globally bigger than expected.

Finish: long, with the pepper kicking in. Cinchona.

Comments: two malts in one, with a relatively civilised nose and a greatly raw and powerful palate. The peat is big!

Caol Ila Distillery

Caol Ila Distillery is located on the picturesque east coast of the island of Islay, overlooking the Sound of Islay, a strait that separates Islay from Jura. Founded in 1846 by Hector Henderson, the distillery has a rich history and is the largest distillery on Islay.

A specific feature of Caol Ila is the production of both peated and unpeated single malts. The distillery is particularly famous for its heavily peated whiskies with elegant, maritime influences. The whiskies often have a distinctive flavour profile with notes of smoke, sea salt, citrus, and a subtle sweetness.

Caol Ila traditionally uses copper pot stills and water from nearby Loch nam Ban. The whiskies are mainly matured in ex-bourbon casks, which contributes to the smooth, balanced flavours.

With its unique combination of tradition, craftsmanship and distinctive flavour profile, Caol Ila remains a respected name in the world of Scotch single malt whisky.