Caol Ila 19 yo (1996/2016), SMWS 53.233, 60,5%

Review #737

This whisky is called “Fireman’s gloves on a mermaid” and comes from a refill ex-Bourbon hogshead. Only 258 bottles were made. Light peat and just a touch of cigar on the nose. Very elegant, with a great mix of peat and caramelized white fruits with a coastal touch.

I’m not sure if I got cigar on my mind, but I think it is very clear again in the taste alongside the peat. Old cigar, with wood coming through as well. Like most Caol Ila whiskies, you are left behind with loads of vanilla in the finish. The coastal touch is here again – perhaps like salted caramel. Some white fruits and peaches is here as well in the background all the way through.

We are starting to reach that point of age where the peat is starting to wear off, and replace this heavy Islay punch with elegancy. This is something you won’t get anywhere else than Islay! I will give this 89/100 (22/23/22/22).