Caol Ila 12yo

A very muscular, full bodied single malt from Islay, enriched by a finish of 6 months in Pedro Ximenez casks. While they had a strong influence, though, it still is very recognizable as a very heavily peated whisky from the island: the casks made it meatier, more powerful, but not too dominated by the wine. At the nose it’s leathery, with notes of camphor and sandalwood, a pleasant oaky character, and herbal bitters. There is a winey note, but it’s quite restrained. The influence of the Pedro Ximenez is much less fruity than expected, and even at the palate it’s actually on the dry side: immensely smoky, with notes of barbecue and charcoal, slightly earthy, full of liquorice root. Only a note of orange marmalade betrays the wine. In the end, the huge smokiness lets hints of balsamic vinegar and mint shine through.