Caol Ila 1996 18 YO Old Particular (Cask #10790)

Caol Ila 1996 18 YO Old Particular (Cask #10790), 48,4 %

Time to review a whisky in the Old Particular range from Douglas Laing again. It has been awhile now. This series of releases from the independent bottler is (almost always) bottled at 48,4 %. Caol Ila is of course on of the Islay distilleries; one of two owned by Diageo (the other being Lagavulin).

This is a quite new release, distilled in September 1996 and bottled in May 2015. Still I have trouble finding it available online. Such is the nature of single cask releases. The Caol Ila 1996 18 YO Old Particular (Cask #10790) was available to buy in the UK at GBP 71.

Nose (22/25): A gentle giant, I would say. Maritime in character, with that typical green-ish/herbal note lingering in the shadows. Soft, leathery smoke, vanilla, almonds and caramel pudding.

Taste (22/25): Pepper and cool. Chewy, yet soft, mouthfeel. Quite peaty, and slightly green, just as I like my Caol Ila.

Finish (21/25): Light vanilla, caramel and soft fruit notes. The peatiness is less noticeable here.

Balance (21/25): Maybe a bit on the soft side? I am being too harsh right now, aren't I? Well, it is a great dram. Enjoy!

Score (86/100)

Image from Master of Malt.

Sláinte! - Thomas