Review: Caol Ila Distillers Edition 2011 – Distilled 1998

By Christopher Null | May 22, 2012 |

A classic 12 year old Islay malt whisky, finished in Moscatel (aka Muscat) casks.

As fans know (and love), Caol Ila is one of the peatier whiskys out there, and even the sweet orange character of Muscat can’t cut through the smoke with much effect. Burly, smoldering, and long-lasting, it’s classic, somewhat simple Islay whisky through and through.

In almost every way, it’s the least challenging of the six whiskys we’ve tasted this week (and are now wrapping up with this review), but it’s still plenty enjoyable for the peat freaks out there. I just wish I could report there was more complexity — specifically more in the way of sweetness — somewhere in here.

86 proof.

B / $81 / malts.com