Caol Ila – The Distillers Edition 2022 Double Matured (70cl, 43%)

This is the 2022 Distillers Edition of Caol Ila, an Islay single malt that has been double matured. It is bottled at 43% ABV in a 70cl bottle. The nose is intense and smoky from the first moment, with spice alongside. As it opens, the fresh, clean character of the distillery comes through, a little like a bonfire that has just been put out with water. Fruit sits quietly in the background. On the palate it is firm, oily and soft in texture, sweet and enveloping at first before a full smoky attack arrives. The smoke is balanced by sweetness, body and light wood spice. The finish is long, smoky and robust, warm and spiced.