2010 Berry Bros. & Rudd Caol Ila, Coasts & Shores, Cask Ref. 311743, Islay, Single Malt Scotch Whisky (56.4%)
About this SPIRIT
Caol Ila Distillery, Islay
Caol Ila (Gaelic for 'the Sound of Islay') was built in 1846 by Hector Henderson, a Glasgow businessman with a keen interest in distilling. The distillery is hidden in a quiet cove near Port Askaig, overlooking the Sound of Islay. The water source for Caol Ila is the peaty Loch Nam Ban about a mile away from which the water flows through fields, arriving at a waterfall near the distillery. The six stills are large and lantern-shaped.
Caol Ila is considered to be one of the lighter of the Islays and tends to be medium-bodied with a rounded flavour. Whilst this malt has a peaty nose, it also has distinct floral notes and is often described as tasting slightly of seaweed, smoky, salty, and with a dry peppery finish. However, the distillery also releases unpeated malts.
Caol Ila is by far the biggest on Islay, producing over 6.5 million litres of alcohol a year.
(Adapted from the Malt Whisky Yearbook 2024)
Buying options
Add to wishlist
Description
Caol Ila Distillery is sheltered from the Atlantic Ocean, sitting near Port Askaig on the eastern coast of Islay. Pronounced "Cull Eela", it takes its name from the Gaelic, translating to "Sound of Islay". Its whisky is respected for its distinctive, smoky Islay style and elegant, fruity balance.
Tasting Note
On the nose, briny sea air mingles with golden sultanas and honeyed apricots, underpinned by a gentle wafter of peat smoke. An oily, thick texture envelops the palate, where rich, dried fruits - sultanas and figs - are balanced by earthy smoky undertones. Hints of toasted almonds and dark choclate add complexity, complemented by a subtle citrus zest. The smoky peat gradually gives way to a lingering sweetness of muscovado sugar and dried figs, leaving a whisper of coastal brine in its wake.
spirit at a glance
Delivery and quality guarantee