Caol Ila 2008 Aged 12 Years Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky – Adelphi (700ml)

Volume: 700ml           ABV: 53.6%           Age: 12 Years Old          Country: Scotland

Cask Number(s): N/A
Date of Distilling: 2008
Date of Bottling: 2021
Matured In: First fill sherry butt
Un-Chillfiltered

The name Caol Ila comes from the Gaelic ‘Caol Ila’ meaning ‘Sound of Islay’ which is the stretch of water which separates Islay from Jura. The distillery was founded in 1846 and has been very successful through its long history. The distillery draws water from the nearby loch which is surrounded by myrtle and heather. As did most distilleries it closed during the Great Depression from 1930 to 1937 and was reconstructed from 1972 to 1974. Juggling between old traditional methods and modern methods of using new technology. It is the main Islay profile in most Johnnie Walker bottlings and it is owned by spirit powerhouse Diageo.

Adelphi exist to identify the very small number of casks that have produced the ultimate whiskies. The criteria for selection include rarity and maturity, but above all flavour. These whiskies are both rare and sought-after – these very special casks are so rare that, on average, Adelphi accepts a mere 4% that it is offered. Each single cask of whisky matures its contents very differently, imparting its own character to the whisky it holds and, as a result, there are never two Adelphi’s quite the same.

This single malt whisky was distilled in 2008 at the Caol Ila distillery before being placed in a first fill sherry butt and left to mature for 12 years. In 2021 it was bottled at 53.6% abv as part of the Adelphi Selection Series. The Caol Ila distillery is known for producing whisky that offers chocolate, citrus and floral notes as well as tangy and peaty, which is typical of an Islay whisky.

Only 287 bottles were produced for worldwide distribution.

Tasting Notes

Nose: Harbourside oysters with Tabasco, eucalyptus, twiglets, mature cheddar and peanut satay.

Palate: Savoury with biltong, Oxo cube, olive brine, chocolate and chilli, salted liquorice.

Finish: Lengthy, waxy finish.