2012 Signatory Vintage Caol Ila 13 Year Old 100 Proof Edition #70 Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

"Love this one. Classic sherried Caol Ila. Farmy peat, red fruit, ashy smoke, saline, beach stones, lemon rind. Lovely." - whiskybase.com

Alongside Kilchoman, Caol Ila is one of our all-time favourite Islay distilleries. It’s a large-scale operation, but only a fraction of the total production makes it to market as single malt. In the last few years there've been whisperings that Diageo has decided to stop sales of Caol Ila to independents. If it's true, there's some consolation in the fact that it’ll be years before indie bottlings dry up altogether. (That said, we have noticed releases are less frequent than in the past). It will be a shame to see them go, as it's the high-strength expressions that consistently shine brightest, offering exceptional depth while balancing the distillate's signature clean, coastal peat smoke and maritime sea spray. These releases are multifaceted, meaning, there's usually varying complexity and nuance between bottlings. We fast sold out of three from Signatory's 100 proof range, and reviews from the web suggest Signatory's Edition #70 may well be the most 'classic' and expressive to date. Quite simply stated, "A fine Caol Ila, a fine Islay whisky." Add in rich wine cask influence and you'd be mad to pass on this at such an obviously good price. Matured in first-fill and refill Oloroso sherry butts and refill hogsheads. 57.1% Alc./Vol. Non-chill filtered.

Other reviews... In the glass, it initially displays a pleasantly maritime and smoky character. Salty sea breeze and peat smoke mingle with lemon, yellow fruits, and apricots, while roasted nuts add a more bitter note. On the palate, it becomes sweeter: dark berries combine with peat smoke, oak, and citrus notes. A slightly earthy, rustic character adds to the whisky's appeal. The finish is medium-long and becomes increasingly dry, leaving behind spicy oak, peat smoke, and herbal notes. All in all, this is a characterful, smoky Caol Ila that combines maritime and fruity elements with a spicy, dry edge. It doesn't come across as overly complex, but offers a coherent overall impression and is enjoyable precisely because of its slightly gritty, tart character. The 57.1% ABV gives it considerable substance without overshadowing the smoky and fruity notes. - whiskybase.com

...far surpassing the original 12-year-old Caol Ila. If you're looking for a tasty Islay whisky with transparent information about its origin and maturation – what we like to call an honest whisky – then this is the one for you. A fine Caol Ila, a fine Islay whisky. - whiskybase.com