Caol Ila 1981 Bottled 1997 Flora & Fauna

Caol Ila 1998 Distillers Edition

Caol Ila is often called “the neglected Islay whisky.” It’s so neglected, it’s famous for being neglected. And I’m not sure who’s guilty of all this neglecting. It’s one of the more ubiquitous brands in liquor stores large and small, and its reputation has always been strong among connoisseurs. Therefore, I always interpret “neglected” in any Caol...

Score 90/100

Caol Ila 14 Year Old 2001 Gordon & Macphail Hermitage Wine Casks Finish

This 14 Year Old Caol Ila Hermitage Wine Casks Finish from 2001 was released in Gordon & Macphail’s Private Collection series, in which only exclusive casks that were chosen by the G&M management are bottled. A Caol Ila on wine? Really? Hmm. Let us give it a try. As soon as I pour this into my glass, it is clear that this is going to be...

Score 85/100

Caol Ila Distillers Edition 2003

I've generally liked Caol Ila and found this bottle at the LCBO (Caol Ila doesn't get here very often). As I have an older 1997 DE, thought we could do a little compare and contrast. These releases are finished in Moscatel wine casks. My bottle has been open for a couple of months. The colour is a medium-light gold. On the nose we have smoked...

Score 77/100

Caol Ila 35 Year Old 1982 Diageo Special Release 2018

When I tried the Caol Ila 30 Year Old earlier this year – which was released in Diageo’s Special Release in 2014 – I described it as ‘perfect’ and plundered my savings account to get me a bottle. Now that Port Ellen and Brora are not part of this coveted series, another top malt had to step in. It’s this Caol Ila, currently the oldest official...

Score 96/100