
The largest distillery on Islay, Caol Ila sits on the Sound of Islay overlooking the picturesque island of Jura. Most of Caol Ila ends up in blends, but it also produces a wide variety of peated & un-peated single malt expressions. This 25 Year Old was released after the success of the cask strength versions in 2004 & 2005, it is a sign of growing recognition of the quality of drams that come from this underrated distillery. It's the usual mix of American & European Oak refill casks, with concentrated peat & the characteristic Caol Ila oiliness. Nose: Apricot, hints of vanilla & pear, with a light minty touch, which grow towards soft medicinal notes. Very nice ashy & oily notes in the background. Delicate, complex nose. Palate: elegant, oily & slightly buttery. The peat & medicinal touches are still there but they arrive late. Also apples & oranges, hints of pink grapefruit. Dried sea weed. Soft smoke & leathery touches. This one unfolds nicely & gains power along the way. Finish: long, with apple peel, smoke & a hint of roasted coffee in the very end.