Caol Ila 9 Years Old 2010 The Un Chillfiltered (Signatory)

From the Pitlochry bottler Signatory Vintage, a 9 year old Caol Ila, distilled in 2010, bottled at 59.3%. Caol Ila stands below a steep brae on Islay's rugged east shore. Most of its peated malt is destined for the Johnnie Walker blends.

This was distilled with a long fermentation and a clean cut, for the light, maritime smoke Caol Ila is known for. A fresh bourbon barrel lent vanilla, coconut and a fuller body. Early, extractive maturation draws vanillin (vanilla) and furfural (toasted almond) from the wood over a clean, phenolic smoke. The tall stills and a high cut give a lighter, cleaner spirit than the southern Islays. The medium peating leaves a smoke that is firm but never heavy. Long fermentations build the fruity, citrus notes that sit beneath the smoke. Smoked citrus and a saline minerality are the hallmarks of the make. Sea air works into the maturing casks, lending a briny, coastal lift.

At a full 59.3% it is bold and oily. Smoke, grapefruit and a maritime salt, with a touch of vanilla and toffee. Soft smoke and citrus sit behind the cask. A long maritime smoke closes it. This is a lemony, coastal Islay single malt.