Càrn Mòr Caol Ila 8 Years (Bottled 2021)

Independent Caol Ilas are frequently outstanding, and increasing the alcohol content, even slightly, makes a significant difference. Considering its price, this bottle is exceptional, although it might be difficult to obtain outside the UK. Nose: The aroma is driven by the spirit, featuring the characteristic intense iodine peat of Caol Ila. It has a less pronounced briny note than I typically find in standard Caol Ila bottlings, but it's still quite noticeable. Additionally, the oloroso sherry contributes a rich, cooked fruit and raisin-like quality. Palate: The oloroso sherry is prominent upon tasting, offering a rich, full, sweet, peaty, and black peppery experience. This Caol Ila is definitely less salty. I personally prefer the briny aspect, so I'm slightly disappointed. However, for the cost, it's outstanding. Finish: The brine finally appears at the end and persists. Thankfully. It leaves a lingering damp earthiness that smolders for hours. Avoid pairing this with a cigar, as they will overpower each other. The mouthfeel is comparable to finishing a bag of excessively buttered movie popcorn – that is to say, it's oily and delightful.

NOSE: tobacco, distinct sherry, vanilla, butter, strawberries, peat, chocolate. TASTE: intensely sweet with a peated blend, tobacco, and leather. FINISH: a trace of tobacco, sweetness, and sherry.