Caol Ila 17 years 2007 - 2024 #313187 Saltire Rare Malt

The Caol Ila 17 years 2007 - 2024, bottled by Saltire Rare Malt, is a masterful single malt from the iconic Islay island. This expression, from a carefully selected single cask (#313187), offers the perfect combination of Caol Ila's signature peat smoke and the elegant complexity that develops over 17 years of maturation. With its rich flavours and subtle nuances, this is a whisky that will enchant lovers of Islay malts. An absolute must for fans of smoky and refined whiskies.

Tasting note

Nose

Intense aromas of campfire smoke and ash, mixed with notes of seaweed and salty air. Subtle hints of lemon peel, honey and vanilla add a fresh sweetness, while a touch of white pepper and roasted nuts give the nose a spicy twist.

Taste

Full-bodied and powerful, with a silky balance between peat smoke and sweetness. Flavours of caramel, toffee and ripe citrus are complemented by a slightly salty undertone and a subtle spiciness of black pepper. A touch of toasted oak and dark chocolate adds depth.

Finish

Long and smoky, with lingering notes of charcoal, honey and a gentle saltiness. The finish ends elegantly with a hint of lemon zest and refined spiciness.

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.

Saltire Rare Malt Whisky Company

Saltire Rare Malt Whisky Company is an independent bottler specialising in selecting and bottling rare and high quality Scotch whiskies. The company focuses on offering unique single malts and single cask whiskies, often from special or hard-to-find casks. Saltire is known for bottling whisky without additives, such as colourings, and without cold filtration, to ensure the purity and authentic character of the whisky.

An important role within Saltire is played by Hans Offringa, an internationally recognised whisky expert, writer and ambassador. Offringa, also known as "The Whisky Couple" together with his wife Becky, is involved in the selection and presentation of the whiskies Saltire releases. His extensive knowledge and passion for whisky help Saltire create exclusive and unique bottlings that appeal to whisky collectors and enthusiasts. His reputation and expertise add extra prestige and credibility to Saltire Rare Malt Whisky Company's bottlings.