Caol Ila Distillery
ABV 58.3%
The more typical of the two 1989 versions. For me, classic Caol Ila, with a touch of peat, noses ahead of the fruitier, more sensuous, expression.
Michael Jackson
Signatory
Brand
1989, Cask Strength
Expression
Single Malt
Type
No age statement
Age (Years)
58.3%
ABV
Islay
Region/Country
Independent Bottling
Bottling Type
Taster
Nose: Smoky, with hints of oak and sherry.
Palate: Syrupy, surprisingly sweet and nutty, with very late development of appetisingly grassy, peaty, smokiness, slight seaweed and saltiness.
Finish: Long and warming.
Comment: The more typical of the two 1989 versions. For me, classic Caol Ila, with a touch of peat, noses ahead of the fruitier, more sensuous, expression.
Score: 8
Taster
Nose: Elegant, powerful and muscular. Stewed pear, cream and dried peel/orange marmalade. Great energy. All the phenolics come from the end of the pier.
Palate: Big and chewy, the smoke acting as a counterpoint to maritime/medicinal notes. Heather perfumed smoke and rich fruit in perfect balance.
Finish: Long and smoky, a touch of Germolene, then almond/cream.
Comment: The biggest and the most complex.
Score: 8.5
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