While it’s still not easy for independent bottlers to get hold of Islay whisky, it seems Coal Ila is a solid choice. They’ve always had a steady production and quality is very reliable, not matter what the age.

Eiling Lim selected a Coal Ila 2006 as her 11th release.

Caol Ila 9 yo 2006 (51,2%, Eiling Lim 2015, 109 btl.)

Nose: crystal clear. Its dry character comes out first, with salty sea spray, fennel, hessian and medium smoke. Then it becomes slightly rounder, with almonds and berries. Mouth: oily mouthfeel, plenty of peaty notes at first, joined by...