This is an intriguing Scotch, quite unexpected from a Caol Ila product. This independent bottling hails from Gordon & Macphail, one of the most established and knowledgeable groups in sourcing and releasing single cask whiskies. What makes this one unique is its red wine finish, which transforms the Caol Ila base into something much more akin to Ardbeg or Laphroaig. Initially, there's more peat than smoke on the aroma, with sherry or wine accents, and savory, meaty notes of buttered biscuits and prosciutto emerging over time. The palate is reminiscent of a sherry-finished Ardbeg or Laphroaig, specifically like Ardbeg Dark Cove. Its smoke has a medicinal quality, but it's balanced by a complex array of flavors that evoke sweet and salty honey-glazed ham. The finish starts with fiery smoke, then develops into sweeter honey notes. This bottle would likely cost $100 or more, but since it's no longer available, the price is less of a concern. If you find it at a bar, request a pour – you won't be disappointed!
Caol Ila Hermitage Wood Finish 2001 Private Collection (Gordon & MacPhail)
4.48 Very good
Whiskey Scotch Islay 13 Year 45% ABV
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About this bottle
This thirteen-year-old Caol Ila, part of Gordon & MacPhail's Private Collection, was matured in first-fill red wine barrels. These French oak barrels originated from Hermitage, a small appellation in the Northern Rhône with a winemaking tradition dating back to 600 BCE, and were sourced from Guigal, a well-regarded wine negociant. Hermitage is recognized for its Syrah wines, the sole red grape permitted in the area. The distillate itself comes from Caol Ila in Port Askaig, Scotland, a distillery known for its moderately peated whiskies. The malt was distilled on August 29th, 2001, and bottled at 45% ABV in April 2015.
Reviews
Showing the most detailed of 3 parsed reviews.
Less intense than some other Islays. Pronounced CULL-ee-luh Aroma: smoke, light peat, fruity, nutty Taste: smoke, oak, red wine Finish: red wine
Peaty smoke, leather, sandalwood, burnt rubber, a train decelerating.
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