caol ila 37 year (single malts of scotland)

A swift wave of caramel and orange zest appears, followed by robust oak and dried fruit notes. There's a fig/prune flavor, along with cereal, hay, char, and baking spices blending beautifully. It also has a note reminiscent of the rind of smoked ham. The peat arrives quickly and remains rich, earthy, and intense despite 37 years in the barrel. Decent salinity is present near the finish, which is long and peaty. The dried fruit returns to mingle with the peat near the end. The liquid itself is unique, creating a noticeable foam when shaken. This is likely the best peated single malt I've ever had, effortlessly elegant yet powerfully robust.