Caol Ila 9 Year Old 2013 20cl

Caol Ila is Islay's largest distillery, founded in 1846 on the Sound of Islay, producing around 6.5 million litres of peated spirit a year, most of which disappears into blends. Independent single-cask bottlings like this one give a rare glimpse of the distillery's character unblended and close to natural strength.

This is GreatDrams' second single cask, single malt release from Caol Ila: a single bourbon cask distilled in 2013, bottled in 2022 at 9 years old and 48.2% ABV, non-chill filtered and natural colour. Just 140 bottles were produced worldwide, offered here in a 20cl format.

The nose combines classic Islay smoke with rich pineapple and apricot notes and a hint of toasted oak. On the palate, peat and coastal salinity come through instantly, joined by mixed berries, winter spice, seaweed, mango and a suggestion of coconut upside-down cake, topped with oak smoke. The finish is long, with burnt hay, fresh pears, nutmeg, sea salt and candied lime peel.

Awards: Gold Medal, San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2023; Gold Medal, London Spirits Competition 2023.

Region: Islay  |  Style: Single Malt Scotch Whisky (Single Cask)  |  ABV: 48.2%  |  Size: 20cl  |  Cask: Bourbon Cask