Country: Scotland
Region: Islay
Type: Single Malt
Bottler: Distiller
ABV: 59.1%
Score: 92 points
Unpeated Caol Ilas have been part of the Diageo Special Releases series 13 times since the series began in 2001, but this 15-year-old single malt is the first of those to bring together ex-Sherry European Oak butts with the usual refill and rejuvenated American Oak hogshead casks. The nose has a touch of lemon pepper spice, along with honey, vanilla, dried flowers, and a hint of butterscotch in the background. The taste is honey-sweet at first, followed by a burst of lemon pepper spice, linseed oil, honey, and a fruity tartness. The finish is long, tart, and vibrant. (September, 2018)