2014 Caol Ila 10 Year Old "Signatory" K&L Exclusive Refill Hogshead #326090 Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

If you weren’t aware, I’m a total sucker for Caol Ila. It’s a very large distillery, but only a fraction of its total production makes it out as single malt. I’ve even heard rumors that significant quantities of unpeated malt are produced for their blending needs. One thing I love about Caol Ila is that, like some of its Islay neighbors, it’s remarkably multifaceted. It’s difficult to determine whether these stylistic ranges are intentional, like Bruichladdich, or seasonal, like Laphroaig, but we have three barrels this year of different styles and ages, each in classic refill hogsheads. The idea was to capture three faces of Caol Ila and present them at stupendous prices. This first of the three casks is the youngest, but also the most vibrant. The color is a juicy pale gold (0.3). The nose is shiveringly good, offering strong zesty citrus and salt, a briny, oily character, salted capers, tense sea spray, and fresh green peat. With air, it continues toward a very pure and taut vibrancy. The palate is intense, with strong citrus character—lime and salt—followed by more brine and a long, peaty finish. An absolute laser beam, designed for serious lovers of the high-intensity style. An incredible value.