Clan Denny Or Sileis Caol Ila 2010-2020 魔王與黑貓 "Devil with its Cat" (1x70cl)

Caol Ila from the Islay coast, distilled in 2010 and bottled in 2020 by Clan Denny / Or Sileis. This is an independent bottling rather than an official distillery release, which is the fun part: single-cask style releases like this usually taste a bit different from the standard label you'd find in a supermarket.

Islay malts are usually peated, so this is one for people who already like smoke. Good whisky-and-conversation bottle, and a solid gift for a friend whose shelf already has a few Islay bottles on it.

Tasting notes

Caol Ila is typically the more elegant side of Islay - usually smoky rather than tarry, with maritime and briny notes, lemon and green apple, a little ash and a dry finish. Independent bottlings at around ten years generally show the spirit character fairly clearly, so a few drops of water often helps it open up.