Taster

Nose: A measured, almost sulking peatiness breaks through some flat and uninspiring fruity, oaky tones.

Palate: Surging peat and sweet malt are given their usual oily treatment with some extra peppery spices making a change. But the middle seems a little jaded.

Finish: Some flat peatiness flies alongside the oak, too lazy to battle for supremacy.

Comment: Can't put my finger on it: it's okay, but a bit boring and passionless for a Caol Ila.

Score: 7

Taster

Nose: Juniper, seaweed, tobacco.

Palate: Hint of nutty sherry. Leafy, junipery, tobacco-like, long.

Finish: Teasing, appetising, interplay of distillery flavours and sherry.

Comment: A beautifully balanced, rounded, example of this distinctive malt.

Score: 8