We have always strived to provide variety in the Wilson & Morgan catalogue, but since our birth in 1992 one of the staples of our lineup has always been Caol Ila, which has never missed a year. The reasons are simple: Italy has always loved peated Islay whiskies, it’s a distillery with a very high and constant quality, and it’s excellent both young and old.
Recently Whiskyfun had a series of sessions in which several Caol Ila bottlings were tasted and rated, including three from Wilson & Morgan:
Apart from the obvious winner, the lovely 30yo from many years ago, also the younger and very affordable expressions currently on the shelves have achieved excellent scores: a confirmation that Caol Ila can be great even at a relatively young age, especially with our creative wood choices for maturation.
But, age statement aside, what is the difference between all the Caol Ila bottlings we have released? We’ll try to explain!
Traditional oak: entirely matured in refill bourbon casks, they are usually the smokiest and driest (especially the young ones), with little influence from the wood. Very little sweetness, no wine.
Bourbon cask/finish: as the name says, matured or finished in first fill bourbon casks, for a richer, fruitier, sweeter touch
Virgin Oak: finished (usually for 2 years) in new toasted oak casks, which give a strong note of vanilla, liquorice and tannins. Usually more restrained in smokiness, but with a very robust body.
Quercus Alba: a special kind of Caol Ila, made from a vatting of Bourbon and Virgin Oak casks… to marry the best of both!
Sherry Finish: finished in Oloroso or Pedro Ximenez casks, either first fill or second fill. According to the length of the finish, they can simply add fruity and leathery notes to the peat, or markedly winey notes, coffee and cocoa.
100 UK Proof: combined with any of the above, a special release at the ABV of 57.1%.
Have you chosen which of the currently available Caol Ila from Wilson & Morgan you’re curious to try next? Take a look at our Catalogue!
