2013 Signatory Vintage Caol Ila 12 Year Old 100 Proof Edition #65 Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Independents have caught on to the fact that Caol Ila works extremely well with sherry, and who better to demonstrate it than one of Scotland's modern-day Sherry Masters, Andrew Symington? Next to the secret Macallans, the Caol Ilas have become the most popular whiskies in the entire 100 Proof series. Edition #65 promises another classic Islay expression, with distinct though integrated peat smoke, sweet and spicy sherry notes that don't seem artificial, fine vanilla from the bourbon hogsheads, a touch of piña colada behind the smoke and a few nuts from first-fill oloroso butts. Pay $140+ for the official 12YO, or grab this for considerably less – plus it comes with a specified cask composition and a much, much higher alcohol content allowing for extra dilution potential. Whichever way you look at it, you're getting an unqualified bargain. 57.1% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.

Other reviews... a fine Islay whisky, well-composed and gaining a complexity from the smoke that makes it interesting. Overall, it's certainly a straightforward Islay whisky, but the sherry influence gives it a special character that sets it apart from many of the undisclosed Islay whiskies, which usually also come from Caol Ila but whose maturation sometimes relies on rather inadequate casks. Here you get a single malt whisky with a defined age, defined casks, and balanced maturation at a great price. A very tasty whisky to drink, savor, and enjoy on a pleasant evening. - whiskybase.com