The pinnacle of the single malts in the 2018 edition of Diageo Special Releases, the Caol Ila 1982 is the oldest Caol Ila released as part of this series. This exquisite whisky, aged for 35 years, is a masterful blend of refill American-oak hogsheads and both refill American- and European-oak butts, which add a gentle character while allowing the whisky's complex flavors to shine. Produced in the renowned Caol Ila Distillery, located in the Islay region, this limited edition bottling consists of only 3,276 bottles, making it a rare gem for collectors and connoisseurs alike. Upon pouring, the nose is immediately greeted with a powerful wave of smoke reminiscent of a beach bonfire extinguished by sea water. This smoky introduction is followed by a medley of aromas including iodine, seaweed, berries, citrus fruits like lemon and grapefruit, along with darker notes of rusted tools, menthol, and freshly crushed black sesame seeds. As it opens up, layers of tropical fruit, such as pineapple and mango, along with hints of vanilla and a variety of teas, come to the fore. The palate is equally complex and bold. It initially presents a powerful, smoky, and spicy profile, combining peat smoke with saline and sweet undertones. The flavors evolve to reveal citrus notes, salted butter, dark chocolate with berry filling, and an array of tropical fruits. A bitterness akin to cocoa emerges, balancing the sweetness and lending depth to the tasting experience. Additional notes of pistachio, walnut oil, honey over dates, lemon balm, and peppermint also make an appearance. The finish is wonderfully long and dynamic, transitioning from smoky to sweeter and silky soft before gently fading. Lingering flavors of licorice, fresh camphor, eucalyptus, and a subtle mineral-ashy smoke leave a lasting impression. With an ABV of 58.1%, this whisky is robust yet refined, offering a rich and memorable tasting experience. It's no wonder many reviewers have rated it highly, with some considering it the finest Caol Ila they have ever tasted. This exceptional release showcases the balance, finesse, and complexity that can only be achieved through decades of maturation.
This whisky is the oldest Caol Ila ever released as part of the Diageo Special Releases series, aged for 35 years and presented at an ABV of 58.1%. Its intricate flavor profile and limited edition status make it a standout.
Only 3,276 bottles of the Caol Ila 1982 Diageo Special Releases 2018 were produced, making it a rare and highly sought-after collectible.
The whisky was aged in a combination of refill American-oak hogsheads and both refill American- and European-oak butts, adding gentle complexity to its flavor profile.
Yes, adding water can help open up the flavors further. Experimenting with different amounts of water can enhance your tasting experience.
Iodine, seaweed, tropical fruit, vanilla, smoky, rusted tools, menthol, black sesame seeds, berries, citrus fruits, teas, lemon, grapefruit
Salty, briny, sweet, peaty, smoky, spicy, citrus, salted butter, dark chocolate, berry filling, pineapple, mango, cocoa, pistachio, walnut oil, honey, dates, lemon balm, peppermint
Lingering spice, seaweed, salt, oak, fruity, licorice, fresh camphor, eucalyptus, mineral-ashy smoke
The Caol Ila 1982 Diageo Special Releases 2018 is a complex and multifaceted Scotch with intense smoky, salty, and sweet flavors. Its rich and dynamic palate evolves beautifully, offering a memorable and refined tasting experience. The long finish is a harmonious blend of smoke, sweetness, and subtle herbal notes, showcasing the whisky's exceptional balance and depth.
After several months of reflecting on this dram, I can confidently say it may well be the finest Caol Ila I have ever tasted. The nose is incredibly complex, with layers upon layers of aromas that evolve over time. The palate is bold yet balanced, offering an impressive array of flavors that keep you coming back for more. The finish is long and satisfying, leaving a lasting impression. This release truly embodies the pinnacle of what Caol Ila can achieve in terms of finesse and complexity.
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