Caol Ila 8yo

Gold Medal at Tokyo Whisky & Spirits Competition 2021

We definitely love the influence of sherry cask maturation on peated malts, as it produces a unique style. For this first relase, we chose a subtle approach, though: an Oloroso kiss that is not immediately noticeable at the nose with a winey coat, but just as a way of conveying a fuller, fruitier, juicier taste. Unmistakeably Islay with its maritime and briny aromas, it feels very mature in spite of the young age. The real contribution from the casks is at the palate: it feels definitely more complex, richer and “older” than it should be. The clean, dry and smoky notes of the spirit are supported by a chewy tapestry of ripe peaches, a succulent and sunny body and a lively interplay of fruity sweetness and piquant hints. Only very slightly winey, it’s a young Islay with more meat on its bones.