Caol Ila 2014 (bottled 2022), Wilson & Morgan – Barrel Selection, 57.1%

Introduction

Caol Ila, pronounced “Cull-Eela” and meaning “Sound of Islay” in Gaelic, is one of Scotland’s hidden gems, renowned for producing distinctively smoky yet elegant whiskies that perfectly capture the wild coastal character of its island home.

Production Method

• Raw materials: Scottish malted barley with a high phenol content, characteristic of Islay whiskies, and pure spring water from Loch Nam Ban
• Distillation process: Double distillation in Caol Ila’s tall, narrow-necked copper stills that help create a lighter, more refined spirit despite the heavy peat influence
• Maturation: Aged for 8 years (2014-2022) in selected bourbon casks, allowing the maritime character to develop while maintaining the distillery’s signature smoke profile
• Special techniques: Individually selected by Wilson & Morgan’s expert tasters and bottled at cask strength (57.1%) without chill filtration to preserve maximum flavor intensity

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Powerful peat smoke intertwined with maritime saltiness, fresh oysters, iodine, and subtle medicinal notes; underlying hints of lemon zest, green apples, and delicate vanilla from the bourbon cask
• Palate: Intense wave of smoky peat balanced by sweet malt, oily texture carrying notes of sea salt, citrus oils, white pepper, smoked fish, and light vanilla cream
• Finish: Long and warming with persistent smokiness, fading into mineral notes, ash, brine, and subtle bourbon-derived sweetness that lingers pleasantly

Recommended Serving

• Serving temperature: Room temperature (16-18°C)
• Glass recommendation: Tulip-shaped whisky glass to concentrate the aromas
• Serving ideas: Best enjoyed neat; a few drops of water may open up additional flavors and soften the high alcohol content
• Food pairings: Pairs excellently with smoked salmon, oysters, strong blue cheeses, or dark chocolate with sea salt

Product Specifications

• Alcohol content: 57.1% ABV (cask strength)
• Bottle size: 700ml
• Country/Region of origin: Scotland, Islay
• Certifications/Awards: Selected by Wilson & Morgan, an independent bottler with over 30 years of experience in selecting premium casks

Summary

A Unique Tasting Experience

This Caol Ila 2014 represents the epitome of Islay whisky character, offering an intensity and complexity rarely found in standard bottlings.

With extremely limited availability due to the nature of independent bottlings, this Wilson & Morgan selection represents a rare opportunity to experience Caol Ila in its purest, unadulterated form.

The bottling comes with the seal of approval from one of Italy’s most respected independent bottlers, whose expertise in cask selection is acknowledged throughout the whisky world.

Recognition from Connoisseurs

Wilson & Morgan’s Barrel Selection whiskies have earned a devoted following among whisky enthusiasts who recognize the exceptional quality of their hand-selected casks.

Collectors and aficionados who have committed to exploring independent bottlings of Islay whiskies consistently praise the authentic representation of distillery character found in these specially selected expressions.

This particular bottling stands out even among Wilson & Morgan’s portfolio for its perfect balance of youthful vibrancy and developed complexity, showcasing why Caol Ila is considered a master distiller’s malt.

From Islay’s Shores to You

By selecting this exceptional Caol Ila, you’re being granted access to the kind of whisky typically reserved for industry insiders and connoisseurs with direct connections to Scotland’s finest distilleries.

The approachable yet complex character of this whisky makes it a favorite among both experienced enthusiasts and those beginning their journey into the world of peated malts.

Join the community of discerning Islay whisky lovers who appreciate the authentic expression of terroir and tradition captured in every drop of this remarkable Caol Ila – a true taste of Scotland’s whisky heritage that connects you to generations of masterful distilling.