Caol Ila 12 Year Old is a single malt Scotch whisky from the island of Islay. It’s produced by the Caol Illa distillery, which was founded in 1846 and is known for its maritime location overlooking the sound between Islay and Jura.
Despite being from Islay, known for intensely peated whiskies, Caol Illa 12 is considered more approachable than some of its island neighbors like Laphroaig or Ardbeg. It’s bottled at 43% ABV and serves as a good introduction to peated whisky and is a reliable staple for experienced Islay whisky enthusiasts. I found it be an almost perfect combination – just enough peat smoke to deepen the character of the draft.
Nose
Oil and sea spray, combined with light smoke and citrus notes.
Palate
Sweek peak smoke, olive oil, light medicinal notes, balanced with hints of lemon, green fruits, and sea salt.
Finish
Long, warming, and smoky with lingering maritime notes.
Overall
My favorite of the peat smoked thus far
8/10