2013 Claxton's Warehouse No.1 Caol Ila 10 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Just when you think another indie Caol Ila would be overkill, you get something like this that raises the bar. The aggressive nature of the maturation has softened and sweetened the nose, and in terms of flavour descriptors, it’s pretty standard fare (sea weed, incense, iodine, peat reek). But it’s the way this buzzes and tingles with energy on the palate that sets it apart. Not only is the intensity of the malt exceptional, the menthol rush at the finish is nothing short of invigorating, leaving pepper, spent cigars and charry oak in its wake. It's young Caol Ila in thrilling form. 293 bottles from an STR hogshead at 58.3% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered. Tasted from a 30ml sample.