Caol Ila 18 Years Old 1995 Dram generation (The Whiskyman)

The bottler The Whiskyman released this Caol Ila, an 18 year old, distilled in 1995, bottled at 53.7%, one of 154 bottles. Caol Ila sits on the shore at Port Askaig, on the narrow Sound of Islay. The clean, lemony smoke has made it a favourite of blenders for generations.

This was made from medium phenol malt on soft Loch nam Ban water, giving a bright, citrus driven peat. Ex-Bourbon casks held it, the gentle American oak letting the make lead. Oxidative maturity brings a waxy, fruity depth, ethyl esters of orchard fruit building as the peat turns gentle and coastal. The tall stills and a high cut give a lighter, cleaner spirit than the southern Islays. The spirit's lightness lets sherry, wine and bourbon casks all show through. Olive oil and lemon sit at the heart of the Caol Ila character. Its spirit also feeds blends such as Bell's and Black Bottle.

At a full 53.7% it is bold and oily. Peat, smoked fish and a citrus oil, with a light vanilla and a touch of coconut. An oily smoke coats the palate, citrus and brine behind. A long, briny finish ends on lemon and soft smoke. This is a maritime, lemony Islay single malt.