The Caol Ila 2013 SV Small Batch Edition #4 is a single malt whisky distilled at the Caol Ila distillery on the northeastern shores of Islay, a Scottish island renowned for its peaty and maritime whiskies. Established in 1846, Caol Ila is celebrated for producing whiskies that perfectly encapsulate the essence of Islay - a harmonious blend of robust peat smoke, maritime notes, and underlying fruitiness. This release is the fourth edition in the Small Batch series by Signatory Vintage, a company known for bottling high-quality and rare cask strength single malt Scotch whiskies.
This exquisite release was matured in Oloroso sherry casks for a decade, resulting in a limited-edition whisky that highlights the sublime interaction between the peaty profile of Caol Ila's spirit and the rich, fruity, and spicy characteristics imparted by the sherry wood. Bottled at 48.2% ABV, this whisky is presented in its natural color with no chill filtration, showcasing the whisky in its most authentic form.
The nose is complex, with notes of laurel leaves, hints of sherry, and Italian herbs with mild olive oil. The palate is full-bodied, with a spicy and robust character. Notes of strong cold tea with a lump of sugar, chestnut puree, and butterscotch are present, accompanied by hints of mushrooms and beech nuts. The finish is long-lasting, with unmistakable Caol Ila peat smoke, roasted malt, and a hint of iodine, along with bitter chocolate and coconut.
Overall, this whisky is a must-try for lovers of sherry-cask matured whiskies with a strong peat smoke character. The combination of Oloroso sherry and bourbon casks used in aging this whisky results in a unique and complex flavor profile that is both elegant and robust, making it a standout addition to any whisky collection.
From a blind tasting, some tasters found it a bit strange as the typical Caol Ila character is not that obvious. The nose presents pleasant smoke, smoked ham, and a few dried fruits. On the palate, it is sweet with sherry notes, tart leather notes, nutshells, and a woody essence. The finish is marked by a bitter nuttiness, hints of licorice, and becomes very bitter over time.
This whisky is unique due to its maturation in Oloroso sherry casks for a decade, which imparts rich, fruity, and spicy characteristics that beautifully complement the peaty profile of Caol Ila's spirit.
No, this whisky is presented in its most authentic form with no chill filtration, preserving its natural color and robust flavors.
Expect a complex flavor profile with notes of laurel leaves, sherry, Italian herbs, strong cold tea with a lump of sugar, chestnut puree, butterscotch, mushrooms, and beech nuts, culminating in a long-lasting finish of peat smoke, roasted malt, iodine, bitter chocolate, and coconut.
The Caol Ila 2013 SV Small Batch Edition #4 is an impressive single malt that stands out for its intricate balance of peat smoke and sherry cask maturation. It offers a unique and complex tasting experience that whisky enthusiasts will find both elegant and robust. While the typical Caol Ila character may be less pronounced, the harmonious interplay of flavors makes this release a noteworthy addition to any collection. Highly recommended for those who appreciate the rich, fruity, and spicy dimensions of a sherry-cask matured whisky.
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