Caol Ila 1984 12y

About

Distilled in 1984 and matured for 22 years in a single cask, this Caol Ila was bottled by Scott's Selection in 2006. Scott's Selection, founded in 1948 by Fred Douglas Laing, has built a reputation for selective single-cask releases from Scottish distilleries — this Caol Ila exemplifies their philosophy: no blending, no filtering, pure character from one wood. Caol Ila, Islay's largest distillery, is known for full-bodied, smoky spirit. This 22-year-old expression shows that age doesn't necessarily lead to floral delicacy; instead, it has evolved into something more complex and composed. The profile balances smoke and salt with surprising fruit underneath. The nose opens with putty and camphor, followed by tobacco leaf, sea shells, and lemon — a maritime, mineral entry. On the palate, smoke returns ashy and substantial, with salt running through. The mouthfeel is oily and full. Beneath the peat sit malt, barley sugar, and citrus fruit. The finish is long, with lingering ash, salt, and a bracing bitterness that holds the dram together.

Flavour Profile