Caol Ila 10 Year Old Maltman

I just cannot get enough of Caol Ila. I have said it before and I will gladly repeat it: Caol Ila is one of the most underrated Islay malts, always in the shadow of the Kildalton Trio. Unwarranted, as this young bottling by the Maltman goes to show.

The waxy nose immediately transports me to a bonfire on the beach with struck matches, oyster juice, peat and a touch of tar and seaweeds. A spoonful of cod oil precedes a small amount of citrus and vanilla. But the coastar character dominates.

Once past the lips, I am treated to a spicy dram with quite a lot of ashes. Feels somewhat course on the palate. Salty and oily. Nothing much remains of the fruit. Vanilla is hiding in the background, but leaves the salt to take the lead.

The medium finish is warm and smoky, dying in brine.

This is a very typical Caol Ila. That means it is very good.

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