Caol Ila 35 Years Old 1983 Cask #5290 (Signatory)

A Caol Ila drawn by the Pitlochry bottler Signatory Vintage, distilled in 1983, from cask 5290, bottled at 52.7%, one of 213 bottles. Caol Ila was rebuilt in the 1970s into the large distillery it is today. Long fermentations build the fruity, citrus notes that sit beneath the smoke.

The spirit was run from peated malt through tall stills on Loch nam Ban water, giving a bright, citrus driven peat. A refill hogshead held it quietly, the spirit left to lead. In its ethereal years the malt is waxy and oxidative, faded esters and a touch of sotolon (maple, spice) over the merest whisper of peat. Phenols from the peat smoke carry the medicinal, lemony edge through the years. The distillery was expanded again in the 21st century to meet blend demand. A clean smoke and a coastal salt define the distillery style. Water falls to the distillery from Loch nam Ban in the hills above.

At a full 52.7% it is bold and oily. Smoke, lemon and a peppery oil, with a light vanilla and a touch of coconut. A sea salt and an olive oil note sit under the smoke. A long maritime smoke closes it. This is the elegant, lighter side of Islay.