Caol Ila – 9 Year Old 2016/2025 Small Batch The Single Malts of Scotland New American Oak Barrels

This Islay single malt from Caol Ila was distilled in 2016 and bottled in 2025 by The Single Malts of Scotland as a small batch. It matured for nine years in new American oak barrels rather than refill casks, and the batch was drawn from just five casks. It is non-chill-filtered and of natural colour. The nose is clear peat smoke with a pronounced sea breeze. The palate is surprisingly creamy, with citrus and a strong vanilla sweetness from the fresh American oak, plus fine peppery spice and mineral touches. The finish is long, with a salty note and lingering smoke.