Another great expression of Caol Ila to review - always a treat. This is another Scotch Malt Whisky Society bottling, nicknamed "Industrial Chimney Soot," and aged for 11 years in refill ex-bourbon hogsheads. Bottled at 58.1%. Here are the facts (and impressions):
Nose: So coastal! Iodine, brine, motor oil, seaweed, crushed seashells. Peat. Wispy smoke. Driftwood. Bonfire? And... as the name suggested... thick black soot. Chimney soot - coal powder. It's a monumentally clean nose (even the soot is presented cleanly), a really nicely assembled nose.
Mouthfeel: Thick and viscous.
Palate: Follows the nose pretty closely - sticky tar, seaweed, brine, iodine, peat, smoke, some malt sugar, wood notes. Quite savory and - if you like this kind of bracing Islay dram - delicious.
Finish: Medium, a combination of cask wood and peat smoke.
Verdict: This is probably my favorite expression of Caol Ila I've had, mostly because it's so dark and bright at the same time. It actually reminds me of Ardbeg in some ways. With water, it opens up even more and the flavors all become a bit more nuanced. Worth seeking out.
No comments:
Post a Comment