Caol Ila 25 Year Old Single Malt Whisky 700ml (Scotland)

Colour: deep copper to burnished. Obviously in 25 years, the wood has been gentle on the colour at least.

On the nose: gorgeously Caol Ila. That sweet peat is something else. Brine, citrus. Very coastal. Once those initial impressions die back it’s actually quite medicinal: sea weed and old laboratories. Flashes of ash from a spent fire.

In the mouth: that is exquisite. It’s an extremely subtle whisky: the flavours are perfectly balanced and integrated, so it requires contemplation to pick apart. It’s very warming without being at all harsh. Oily, ashy, sweet with dashes of orange and grapefruit juice. A little honey, but not much. Maritime – evoking harbour walls, winter sea spray, sea weed. The smoke is very mellow indeed, not aggressive in the slightest. The finish is oily, salty, with a touch of pepper, and it’s very long.

$399.00