The mildest of the Diageo peated whiskies I've had so far. Definitely not the campfire peat monsters of Ardbeg, or the distinct maritime peat of Talisker, or the more medicinal peat of Lagavulin... The peat here comes off as sweet and aromatic, almost like incense. The body seems to be the lightest of the lot too (comparing apples and apples), although it's hard to say without seeing them all next to each other (definitely lighter than the Ardberg and even Glen Elgin here). Palate flavours are subtle in the Caol Ila, but citrus notes come through clearly. Finishes a touch short with a sort of grassy earthy quality that I quite enjoy. Not a blockbuster whisky, yet I find it quite drinkable.
NB: Better mixed 1:1 with the Ardbeg Wee Beastie. Seems to balance out the extreme smoke of the Ardberg, drawing out lovely saline notes. — a year ago
Better than expected. — 5 years ago
Good effort from Talisker. Definitely taste the famous fire. — 2 years ago
A very nice ending of a great lunch in the AF lounge — 4 years ago
Tasted like the sea. Wine version of Talisker.
(Paired w/5th course at Alinea.) — 4 years ago
David Koenen
A treat. Nothing less. — 4 months ago