Adelphi Caol Ila 11Years

CAOL ILA 11 YEARS 2014–2026 #326026 ADELPHI SELECTION FIRST FILL OLOROSO SHERRY HHD Caol Ila is known for its clean, maritime smoky style, and a first-fill Oloroso sherry hogshead adds a drier, nutty depth to it without suppressing the clarity of the spirit. This Adelphi Selection from cask #326026 is 11 years old, distilled in 2014 and bottled in 2026, combining coastal smoke with walnut, cocoa, and dried fruit, with a firm, spicy wood structure. Expect an Islay whisky in which peat smoke and Oloroso grip are tightly interwoven. Tasting Note Aroma Tight and smoky with sea air, wet stones, and a clean peat haze. Then Oloroso characteristics of walnut, almond, and raisins, followed by orange peel, cocoa powder, and a hint of leather and tobacco leaf. A light peppery lift keeps the whole fresh and focused. Taste Oily and powerful with smoke and sea salt on the attack. Followed by a drier sherry profile with nuts, dark chocolate, and dried fruit such as raisins and plum skin. The mid-palate gains tension from wood spices, black pepper, and a light espresso-like bitterness, keeping the whisky firm and mature without sticky sweetness. Finish Long and drying with persistent smoke, cocoa, and nutty sherry notes. Towards the end, more tea-like tannins, bittersweet orange peel, and a distinct spicy wood grip that lingers. Caol Ila Distillery Caol Ila Distillery is situated on the picturesque east coast of the island of Islay, overlooking the Sound of Islay, a strait that separates Islay from Jura. Founded in 1846 by Hector Henderson, the distillery has a rich history and is the largest distillery on Islay. A specific characteristic of Caol Ila is the production of both smoky and unpeated single malts. The distillery is particularly famous for its heavily smoky whiskies with elegant, maritime influences. The whiskies often have a distinctive flavour profile with notes of smoke, sea salt, citrus, and a subtle sweetness. Caol Ila uses traditional copper pot stills and water from the nearby Loch Nam Ban. The whiskies are primarily matured in ex-bourbon casks, which contributes to the smooth, balanced flavours. With its unique combination of tradition, craftsmanship, and a distinctive flavour profile, Caol Ila remains a respected name in the world of Scottish single malt whisky.