It’s Wednesday, and that means it’s time to review another one of the “Poisenous Frog Series” from The Daily Dram. After reviewing that heavily sherried Glenrothes earlier this week, it’s time to go in a completely opposite direction. This Caol Ila is not only bourbon matured, but also—quite obviously—heavily peated.
Caol Ila 2006 12 Years Old (52.4%, The Daily Dram)
Nose: Sweet vanilla and mush banana, with soft maritime notes, a hint of green veggies, as well as bonfire embers and cigarette ash. Slightly waxy, and superbly balanced.
Taste: Very creamy, waxy almost, and somewhat sweet. The palate is highlighted by ash, soot and peat, with a hint of licorice and white pepper, and a salty supporting act.
Finish: Lingering bonfire smoke and salt. Long.
Score: 89
What more could you want from a young Caol Ila? The balance is superb.
Photo: Whiskybase
