Caol Ila 12 Year Old

As far as Islay whiskys go i think too much talk is given to Laphroaig, Lagavulin and Ardbeg, the big three. While they do make good whisky its good to get a change and experience something different. The Caol Ila 12 is an entry level malt, i believe it was one of Diageo's classic malts for a time before being replaced by Lagavulin. This is good stuff and well worth a try

• Nose: Peaty, very Laphroaig like phenol, barbeque smoke, earthy, black pepper and a kind of motor oil/diesel sort of note. With water sulphur note comes through.

• Pallet: starts sweet, really nice fruitiness there before a big hit of green olives, from there light peat smoke and earthy phenolics, sweetness pops through again at the back. With water seaweed, and a big herbal note coming through, bit more complexity

• Finish: lasts well, really good length, fruit and peat combine really nicely, bit of tingle on the back of the pallet and throat. With water very similar but slightly more restrained.

• Mark – neat 8.4, with water 8.4

Really enjoyable and available for less than 100AUD its great value. Good for beginners as the pallet isn't too harsh but it has intrinsic complexity that will interest the more experienced drinker

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