Caol Ila 11 Years Old 2008 The Single Malts of Scotland Reserve Casks (Elixir)

Sukhinder Singh's Elixir Distillers selected this Caol Ila, an 11 year old, distilled in 2008, bottled at 48%. Caol Ila was founded in 1846 by Hector Henderson. It was founded by Hector Henderson and later passed to the Distillers Company.

This was drawn off a high cut from peated barley, for a smoke more elegant than heavy. A refill hogshead held it quietly, the spirit left to lead. Through the integration phase spirit and wood marry, vanillin settling into a rounded vanilla as the guaiacol phenols mellow into a softer smoke. The oily texture comes from the spirit cut, the cask adding depth around it. Smoked citrus and a saline minerality are the hallmarks of the make. Its spirit also feeds blends such as Bell's and Black Bottle. A ferry crosses the Sound from Port Askaig to Jura and the mainland. Olive oil and lemon sit at the heart of the Caol Ila character.

At 48% without water it is rich and full. Ashy smoke, lemon oil and a saline tang, with a quiet vanilla under the smoke. A sea salt and an olive oil note sit under the smoke. Ash, lemon and brine draw out the close. This is a maritime, lemony Islay single malt.