Caol Ila 12 year old Single Malt Whisky

Johannesburg has been graced for over a decade by an annual Oyster, Wine, and Food Festival. This June tradition draws in crowds of hungry, enthusiastic foodies. This weekend extravaganza sees over 60,000 Knysna oysters vanish into eager palates alongside an array of delectable dishes and wines. It’s no wonder that this festival remains a perennial favourite.

And when you find yourself basking in the winter sun, surrounded by friends, good music, and mouthwatering food, you might wonder what could make this perfect weekend even better. Well, here’s a secret we’ve been cherishing: a small flask of Caol Ila 12 year old single malt Scotch whisky.

It’s the key to elevating the flavour of fresh oysters, infusing them with the rich, peaty, and smoky essence of Islay. It’s nothing short of perfection.

While Caol Ila may not be as renowned as Ardbeg or Laphroaig, it holds a special place in my heart. The distillery’s name, Caol Ila, is derived from the Gaelic term for the Sound of Islay, which separates the island from Jura.

Situated near Port Askaig on the Sound’s shores, it was first chosen as a location by Hector Henderson in 1846. Over the years, it has changed hands multiple times and is currently under the ownership of Diageo.

Pronounced ‘cull-eela’, most of Caol Ila’s output is used in popular blends like Johnnie Walker. In recent years, the distillery has expanded its repertoire to include peated and unpeated expressions.

The Caol Ila 12 year old single malt is the gateway into the world of this distillery. Introduced in 2002, it offers a more subtle peat and smoke profile than its Islay counterparts.

Also Read: Laphroaig 10 yo whisky

Caol Ila 12 year old Whisky Review

REGION: Islay

ABV: 43%

COLOUR: Light golden wheat

NOSE: When you raise a glass to your nose, you’ll encounter classic Islay notes of peat, sea salt, smoke, and the scent of dry seaweed along the shore, all interwoven with hints of spicy toasted oak. It’s not a big, bold presence; instead, it’s soft and gentle.

PALATE: The palate unfolds with soft peat, oaky smoke, citrus fruit, malt, and a reminiscent aroma of sun-dried oily fish hanging on racks by the shore. As you savour it, notes of vanilla and cinnamon gracefully dance on your taste buds, creating a well-balanced, complex, and rich flavour profile. Adding a few drops of water to your glass reveals even more sweetness.

FINISH: The finish is where this whisky truly shines, as it lingers on your palate with notes of peat, cinnamon, and salt.

RATING: EXCELLENT

The Caol Ila 12 year old single malt whisky stands apart from the boisterous dramatics of Ardbeg or Lagavulin. It’s akin to a perfect winter’s afternoon by the coast, with a refreshing salty breeze carrying whispers of fish, fried seaweed, and untold adventures.

Picture golden sunshine gently drying the sand and only the sea’s rhythmic roar to break the soothing silence. This Scotch whisky is a sophisticated yet easy-drinking dram.

Pairing this Caol Ila with some White Rock cheese, I discovered that while it wasn’t an ideal match, it offered a delightful experience. This whisky truly shines when accompanied by a cheese with a bit more body, complementing its unique character perfectly.

So, whether you’re savouring it with oysters or exploring its pairings, Caol Ila 12 year old whisky promises a taste journey bound to leave an indelible mark on your palate.

Also Read: Ardbeg 10 yo whisky