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8.7

Caol Ila 17yo Unpeated 2015

Name: Caol Ila 17yo Unpeated 2015
Brand: Caol Ila 17yo Unpeated 2015

Scotland Malt Score: 8.7/10

Caol Ila 17yo Unpeated 2015 is a highly acclaimed Malt whiskey crafted in Scotland. With an impressive rating of 8.7/10, it features distinctive notes of Almond, Apple, Ash. Perfect for whiskey enthusiasts seeking malt expressions from Scotland.

About This Whiskey

Caol Ila 17yo Unpeated 2015 is a unique expression from the Caol Ila distillery, known for its peated whiskies, but this particular release stands out due to its unpeated nature. Distilled in 2015, this whisky was aged for 17 years, allowing it to develop a smooth, refined profile while maintaining the distillery’s signature style. Despite being unpeated, it retains the characteristically maritime influence of Caol Ila whiskies, with a balance of fresh, herbal, and slightly fruity notes, along with a light touch of oak and complexity from the maturation process. This bottling offers a fascinating contrast to the more typical smoky and peated releases from the distillery.

Tasting Notes

NOSE: The nose of Caol Ila 17yo Unpeated 2015 is fresh, light, and herbaceous, with an elegant combination of floral and fruity notes. There’s an immediate burst of green apple, pear, and lemon zest, giving it a bright, citrus-forward aroma. Subtle tropical fruit notes, such as pineapple and melon, add further complexity. A delicate herbal quality emerges, with hints of fresh mint, thyme, and a slight coastal breeze, evoking the maritime influence typical of Caol Ila. The oak provides a light, vanilla sweetness, with soft touches of almond and a hint of dried herbs, contributing to the whisky’s balanced and inviting nose.

TASTE: On the palate, Caol Ila 17yo Unpeated 2015 is smooth and refined, with a medium body and a well-rounded profile. The fruity notes from the nose are front and center, with ripe apples, juicy pears, and a touch of citrus giving the whisky a lively, refreshing character. The sweetness of vanilla and honey provides a delicate richness, while the herbal notes of mint and thyme add an intriguing layer of complexity. The oak influence is gentle, providing a subtle depth with hints of almonds and light spices, such as white pepper and a dash of cinnamon. The unpeated nature of the whisky allows these flavors to shine without the intensity of smoke, making it an elegant and balanced dram.

FINISH: The finish of Caol Ila 17yo Unpeated 2015 is medium to long, with the fruity and herbal notes lingering gently on the palate. The light oak influence continues to provide a touch of warmth and depth, while the sweetness of vanilla and honey fades slowly. A delicate spiciness from the oak and a hint of sea salt remain, offering a subtle maritime touch that lingers at the end. The overall finish is clean and fresh, leaving a lasting impression of bright fruit, light herbs, and a soft, oaky sweetness.

Flavor Profile

Almond Apple Ash Cinnamon Dried Honey Lemon Mint Oak Pear Peat Pepper Pine Salt Smoke Thyme Vanilla Zest

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User Reviews

Frequently Asked Questions About Caol Ila 17yo Unpeated 2015

What type of whiskey is Caol Ila 17yo Unpeated 2015?

Caol Ila 17yo Unpeated 2015 is a Malt whiskey from Scotland. This type is known for its distinctive characteristics and unique production process.

How should I taste Caol Ila 17yo Unpeated 2015?

For the best tasting experience, pour Caol Ila 17yo Unpeated 2015 into a tulip-shaped glass and let it rest for a few minutes. Start by nosing the whiskey to appreciate its aromatic complexity. Take small sips and let the whiskey coat your palate. You may want to add a few drops of water to open up the flavors. We recommend enjoying it neat to fully appreciate its character.

What foods pair well with Caol Ila 17yo Unpeated 2015?

Caol Ila 17yo Unpeated 2015 pairs excellently with smoked salmon, oysters, and strong cheeses. The smoky character matches beautifully with seafood and robust flavors.

What are the main flavor notes in Caol Ila 17yo Unpeated 2015?

The flavor profile of Caol Ila 17yo Unpeated 2015 features Almond, Apple, Ash, Cinnamon, Dried. These flavors create a complex and layered tasting experience that has been highly praised by critics and enthusiasts alike.