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Caol Ila 24 Year Old 175th Anniversary

Can a 24-year-old Islay malt be both smoky and elegant? This Caol Ila 175th Anniversary review explores its citrus, brine, and refined peat.

OVERALL RATING

9
$625
  • Mark Bostock, a whisky enthusiast specializing in independent bottlings.
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Tasting Notes

About:

A limited-edition 24-year-old single malt whisky from Islay’s Caol Ila distillery, released in celebration of Caol Ila’s 175th anniversary. Limited to only 3000 bottles worldwide, this release marks the founding of Caol Ila by Hector Henderson in 1846, with the expression released in 2021 and bottled at 52.1% ABV.
Appearance:
Light Copper
Nose:
Fresh aromas open on the nose with ripe lemons, orange peel citrus, and a hint of sultana. The fresh citrus gives way to a salty maritime note and seaweed ash like a smoky beach bonfire, accompanied by a touch of limestone minerality. A sweet note of buttery pastry and vanilla follows, reminiscent of an iced bun.
Palate:
The palate opens with an intense honeyed sweetness, which gives to a slight oiliness as salty brine becomes more prominent. A light and fairly refined ashy peat smoke follows, giving way to shifting layers of fresh citrus fruits, buttery vanilla, sea salt and white pepper, and oyster shell minerality.
Finish:
A long, warming and slightly drying finish, with lightly charred oak spice, white pepper, and salty smoke lingering.
Comments:
A great example of a well-aged Caol Ila expression, the 24-Year-Old 175th Anniversary Edition is a classic maritime character whisky balancing coastal smoke, sweetness, and citrus fruits. The peat smoke feels fairly restrained and refined throughout, allowing Caol Ila’s house style and character to shine through.

Given the price point this Caol Ila is probably going to appeal mostly to collectors, but for anyone seeking a distinctive well-aged Islay whisky for a special occasion the Caol Ila 175th Anniversary Edition is certainly worth consideration.

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.

Mark Bostock

Mark Bostock, an integral part of the Mark Littler LTD UK content writing team since 2019, brings a genuine passion for whisky, especially independent bottlings, to his work. His commitment to expanding his knowledge through attending tasting events and building his own collection enriches his contributions, blending expertise with enthusiasm.

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