Caol Ila Batch 13 (TBWC)

This Caol Ila was bottled by the bottler That Boutique-y Whisky Company, an 18 year old, bottled at 50.5%, one of 377 bottles. Caol Ila looks out across the Sound to the Paps of Jura. Malt comes from the Port Ellen maltings on the south of the island.

The spirit was drawn off a high cut from peated barley, for the light, maritime smoke Caol Ila is known for. An ex-Bourbon barrel gave a gentle sweetness and a creamy edge. In the oxidative middle years the spirit deepens, oxidation drawing out waxy fruit as the guaiacol smoke fades to embers. Phenols from the peat smoke carry the medicinal, lemony edge through the years. Port Askaig is a tiny settlement on the rugged east coast of Islay. Tall stills and a clean cut give the spirit its oily, lemony lightness. Diageo's Special Releases have featured both peated and unpeated Caol Ila. The lighter style means the cask and the citrus speak alongside the peat.

At cask strength 50.5% it is muscular. A clean ashy smoke with lime and brine, with a touch of vanilla and toffee. A maritime salt and a lemon lift run through it. The finish is long, smoky and citrussy. This is the smoky malt of the Sound of Islay.