Caol Ila 9 Year Old 2009 North Star Spirits

Caol Ila? Did someone say Caol Ila? Me, me, me! I have a soft spot for this giant from Islay. And this was finished on a sherry cask and bottled by my buddy Iain Croucher from Glasgow. Well, in that case, I’m sure I need a bottle. Said and done.

Fish oil, seaweed, lime, sultanas, peach, cigar box, ashes and apricots. Hello? The party has started already! The smoke is very subtle and clearly plays second violin. It’s the sweet fruit and some caramelized wood that grabs your attention – and rightfully so. What a fantastic nose indeed!

The body is good, the strength nigh perfect. Absolutely no bite, which proves the alcohol is perfectly integrated. Chili pepper, licorice, toasted oak and a pinch of salt come first, only to be shoved aside by chocolate with banana cream (I kid you not!), honey, caramel, apricot marmalade and blood oranges. Boy, oh boy, this very enjoyable.

The very long finish is a fiery battle between salt and sweet. It’s a tie, but what an absolute delight.

This is definitely one of the best young Coal Ila I have tried recently. Available for 60 to 70 EUR. Highly recommended.

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