Scotch

Whisky Review: Caol Ila 12-Year-Old

We review Caol Ila 12-Year-Old, a classic Islay style single malt Scotch whisky from Diageo.

OVERALL RATING

10
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Tasting Notes

About:

43% ABV, 100% malted barley, minimum 12 years old, $50-$70, 750mL
Appearance:
Creamy yellow, straw
Nose:
Peaty and fresh. Salty green vegetables or seaweed with a slight sweetness akin to honeydew melon. A hint of green nuts.
Palate:
Beautifully smooth, and challenging to comprehend the complexity. Flavor bomb that starts and ends with peat in a dancing way. Oily and uplifting, with a texture that reaches all parts of the palate without being overbearing, which gives it a perceived lightness. Phenolic citrus and a long, smoky finish. Once again, incredible balance.
Finish:
Comments:
Caol Ila 12 holds up to expectations. It initially starts off with a reminder, saying “Hey! I’m an Islay single malt!” But as you become accustomed to the peat, a world of complexity unfolds. Salinity, greens, and smooth character make this an exceptional spirit and an ideal representation of the category. I would recommend tasting it next to other Islay whiskies for a fun comparison, to help highlight the particular styles of each distillery. This is definitely a Scotch worth trying for all whisky drinkers.

Editor’s Note: This whiskey was either bought as a sample by The Whiskey Wash or provided to us as a review sample by the party behind it. Per our editorial policies, this in no way influenced the outcome of this review.

Cameron Holck

After graduating with an engineering degree in Colorado, Cameron Holck found his true calling in the hospitality industry. He pursued his love of the outdoors to the Pacific Northwest, where he continues his dedication to bartending and serves as a sales representative for Four Roses Bourbon. Cameron believes that a night out is defined by the quality of hospitality and strives to enhance that experience with a fantastic drink (likely whiskey) in your hand.

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