Caol Ila 2010

A clean, dry and mineral Islay whisky thanks to its traditional maturation in refill casks: here it’s the spirit that speaks, with little influence from the oak. Very smoky and maritime at the nose, with the tarry and ashy notes matched by a breezy freshness. At the palate it’s just as clean, direct and without compromises: smoky and almost pungent, with a salty and citrusy character that is very appetizing. A hint of flowery and grassy character emerges from behind the peat, and the maltiness remains moderate: just a touch of sweetness, but no heaviness. It’s a powerful peated whisky without mask or makeup: just the sheer excitement of the smoke and the sea.