I spent lots of column inches on the Diageo Special Releases last year, likely not so much this year. The theme hasn’t changed and my thoughts on the series are pretty much the same. However, a friend kindly shared a sample of the Caol Ila 11 Years Unpeated (nicknamed Ambrosial Feast), so here we are.
It’s a style of whisky I’ve very much enjoyed in the past. Bought bottles of even, so I’m kind of excited that it is part of the Diageo Special Releases 2024 once again, because haven’t seen an unpeated Caol Ila since 2018. The big difference is that now rejuvenated ex-wine casks have been used for maturation, which is a cask type that doesn’t always agree with me.
Caol Ila 11 Years Unpeated (57.3%, OB, Diageo Special Releases 2024)
Nose: The ex-wine casks aren’t not noticeable, shall we say. But it’s not too vinous. And it is actually quite gentle (almost shy) for the most part, with touches of raspberry, a sliver of butter and peanuts. Touches of vanilla pastry too, as well as some almonds.
Taste: Immensely nutty. Loads of barley husks too, but it’s the walnuts and almonds that stand out. And roasted peanut skins too. It comes across youthful. Rather immature. The oak spices are pretty loud. Strong, almost bitter coffee notes. Nothing much coastal about it, which is disappointing. (To clarify, a whisky can be unpeated yet coastal.)
Finish: Medium length. Hints of ristretto, wood char and finally some gentle red fruits.
I’ve been a bit disappointed with the special releases in recent years. They are still quite good, but no longer as special as I would like them to be. However, the Coal Ila is relatively rich and creamy and the peat notes are well integrated and give the whisky an earthy foundation. I’m a little disappointed with the visual design. The bottles from previous years looked much cooler.