Caol Ila Cl1 - Elements of Islay
Review by Elements of Islay
- Nose
Initially sweet, with barley sugar and fruit, peaty notes quickly make themselves known – bandages and bung cloth, beach bonfires and smouldering ferns.
- Palate
Rich stewed fruit and smoke at first, with chutney and honey-glazed ham. Buttered toast and honey notes slowly appear with peppery spice and chilli. Water softens the smoke, and reveals layers of orchard fruit.
- Finish
Long and peppery, with first honey then porridge appearing, while coal smoke lingers in the background.
- Note
-
The first release of Cl was very special. A marriage of whiskies of different ages, it was created to show both the punchy character of more youthful spirit as well as the elegance brought by age. The benchmark by which all other Cl whiskies are judged.