Caol Ila 26 Years Old 1982 The Whisky Society (Speciality Drinks Ltd)

The bottler Speciality Drinks Ltd selected this Caol Ila, a 26 year old, distilled in 1982, bottled at 55.7%, one of 215 bottles. Caol Ila is the smoky backbone of the Johnnie Walker blends. Port Askaig is a tiny settlement on the rugged east coast of Islay.

The spirit was made from medium peated malt for a clean, smoky spirit, giving a clean, lemony peat. A refill hogshead held it quietly, the spirit left to lead. Oxidative and evaporative ageing turns the malt rich and waxy, ethereal esters and a faint sotolon (maple) over the softened smoke. Phenols from the peat smoke carry the medicinal, lemony edge through the years. Maturation by the sea gives the malt its mineral, sea spray character. A gentle vanillin sweetness from the oak balances the coastal phenols. The tall stills and a high cut give a lighter, cleaner spirit than the southern Islays.

At a hearty 55.7% it carries real weight. A clean ashy smoke with lime and brine, with a light bourbon sweetness. Smoked lemon and sea salt build over an oily body. The finish is clean, smoky and maritime. This is the elegant, lighter side of Islay.