Caol ila 18 Year Old

After the 12 Year Old – which I really liked – I’ll now try the 18 Year Old, also from the core range of the largest distillery on Islay. After that, I’ll try a very special independent bottling of Caol Ila. I’m not saying which one yet…

This one is softer than his younger brother. Sweeter too. Light peat, dried grass, something flowery (think rosewater), a touch waxy, menthol and some smoke. Vanilla and tangerines.

On the palate, it’s very creamy. The sweet taste immediately takes control. It is drying with vanilla at the kick off, while the peat stays in the dugout. Brine is the goal keeper.

The finish, of medium length, is drying and warm on liquorice & brine.

This one will set you back double of what the 12 Year Old costs, but has little extra to offer. He’s a bit… nice, easygoing. The grown-up Caol Ila. I prefer the brash and more playful younger brother.

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